By Bill Rams
Darren Braham took a break last week from his day job of protecting the community as an Orange County Sheriff’s Department sergeant to serve as “Principal for a Day” at Shorecliffs Middle School.
He was among dozens of community leaders who participated in the program at 63 Capistrano Unified schools — the most in recent history.
Participants learned what it takes to be a public school principal, toured the school, and met students and parents.
What did he learn?
Quite a bit.
For example, “Do not say ‘a lot’ in English class,” he said. “There are many synonyms to use in its place.”
The Lake Forest resident walked away from the experience impressed, particularly with “how intimately the principal is involved in every part of his school,” he said. The principal is “100 percent invested in Shorecliffs Middle School!”
Braham visited a guitar class and a sixth grade English class and answered questions from students in both classes.
When asked about the similarities to his job, Braham answered: “Similar in that he works with parents, students and staff to educate youth,” he said. But different, he joked, because “Principal Davis works harder than I do!”
After his stint as principal ended, Braham joined other participants to share their insights during a special luncheon catered by San Clemente High School culinary arts students. The culinary arts program is one of 28 career and technical education pathways offered in partnership with College and Career Advantage.
“I would recommend this opportunity to anyone to get an inside look at how well CUSD schools educate our students,” he added.
More about the 2020 Principal for the Day event:
Rancho Mission Viejo Executive experiences a day in the life of a principal