Fresh faces in DSA leadership: getting to know the new assistant principals

     After more than a year of being out of school, the transition back has been eventful. As new students come onto campus, new staff members do as well. 

      There have been several big changes in leadership recently, from longtime principal David Hawks leaving his position and James Key temporarily taking his place, to Dr. Jackie Tobias taking over permanently. Now, a few more unfamiliar faces are joining the DSA family. Clinton Richardson is the new assistant principal for 6th and 7th grade and Charles Carter is the new assistant principal for 9th grade.

Q: What made you want to pursue a career in education?

     CR: Education is what allows people to take control of their life and pursue their goals. I want to help in creating an educational environment where everyone feels safe and excited to learn.

     CC: I graduated from high school and joined the Navy and it was a transition for me to find my path. I came from an abusive home and wanted to help others after I left the Navy. After traveling the world and seeing how people in every country and culture wanted the best for their children, I became a teacher. Later I became an Assistant Principal.

Q: What are some things you hope to accomplish in your new position? 

     CR: I want to help our middle school students be successful in their education after nearly 2 years of learning during a pandemic.

     CC: I would like to get to know the students and teachers to help improve the educational environment. 

Q: Where have you worked before and what did you do? Do you have a favorite position you’ve held, and if so, why? 

     CR: Before coming to DSA, I worked in Hillsborough, Raleigh, Minnesota, and Spain. This is my 3rd year as an assistant principal – previously I was a Spanish and English teacher.

     CC: I have worked in many different careers. The first job I worked at during high school was at McDonalds. After graduation, I joined the Navy and worked as an aircraft fueler and electrician. I later went to school to be a principal and worked at WG Pearson, Riverside, and Page as an assistant principal. I enjoyed all my jobs because I was able to help and work with people. DSA will be one of my favorite positions because I believe that the arts are instrumental to the development of students and culture. The arts bring us all closer to each other in the world. Later I attended college and became an elementary teacher for about 8 years. During college, I sold computers for Office Depot and worked in the Army National Guard.