Longtime Miami Lakes Educational Center (MLEC) principal, James V. Parker, announced the 2014-2015 school year would be his last full year as principal, having previously enrolled in the education system’s Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP) which named his last working day in February 2016. A new principal has not yet been announced.
Parker, a principal known for his approachable attitude and annual head-shavings when the students accomplish their consistent “A” school grade, is a man with high hopes and expectations for a school that has received seven consecutive “A” grades. When asked whether the school can continue to improve he says yes without missing a beat.
“This school is a very, very good school,” said Parker. “But it can become a great school with continued improvement.”
Parker has been a large part of that continuous improvement during his 11 year tenure at MLEC, steering the helm that has seen academic growth in grading and programs despite increasingly difficult standards. However, high standards are commonplace in Parker’s life.
Apart from education, Parker’s career in the military for surgical technology and his work in graduate school to earn his Master’s Degree in Health Occupation Medicine speak to an innate and self-imposed rigor, one that has driven Parker to his current leadership role. At long last, Parker is ready to have new adventures after accomplishing much in the way of teaching and leading. He hopes to explore his nation with his wife, now having the opportunity to travel.
Despite a path leading to new chapters, Parker expresses a bitter sweetness about his retirement.
“I will miss my job. I will miss the interaction with students and staff. I’ll miss hearing about accomplishments and I’ll miss the energy of a learning environment,” said a solemn Parker. He pauses, lost in thought, surrounded by awards, photographs, and yearbooks that reflect a decade of fulfillment. “I want to thank the administration, faculty, and staff for their support, encouragement and advice during my tenure from the very bottom of my heart.”
In his parting words of wisdom Parker said, addressing his school, “Keep that MLEC team spirit. And never forget that the students are the most important focus.”