BUENA PARK, CA – Gordon H. Beatty Middle School’s new principal, Joaquin Valdez, lives to inspire his students – helping them turn turmoil into positivity and prepare themselves for college.

“Adversity is something that many of us experience and the ability to see the brighter side of things or the opportunity to see the glass as half full allows us to keep moving forward,” Valdez said. “The ability to trust that things will get better no matter how hard or difficult of a situation you are experiencing is what keeps me moving forward.”

Principal Valdez started his 17-year educational career as a counselor, encouraging students to think about their futures and careers. He has served as an academic counselor and a California High School Exit Exam counselor before becoming an assistant principal.

Valdez said what drew him to Buena Park School District is how its unique Pathway Programs are teaching students about robotics, multimedia, visual and performing arts, engineering and more to prepare them for college.

Beyond boosting academics, Valdez will focus on social-emotional learning to find new ways to mitigate student stress, while also building new relationships through positive behavioral interventions and support.

Principal Valdez has a Bachelor of Science in human services in mental health from California State University, Fullerton with a second major in Chicano studies, an administrative credential from California State University, Dominguez Hills, a master’s degree in counseling (school counseling and pupil personnel services credential) from California State University, Long Beach and a doctorate in educational leadership in higher education from USC.

“Principal Valdez is an amazing educator and I know his supportive and encouraging background is going to fit right in at Beatty Middle School,” Superintendent Dr. Ramon Miramontes said. “I know our community is going to respond well to his personable style and formidable leadership skills.”

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VALDEZ1: Gordon H. Beatty Middle School’s new principal, Joaquin Valdez.