| Mr. Allen Yee’s Perspective at Lawrence |

By: Genesis Estrada

Date: Jan.26.2023

As the interview starts from the count

of 3…2…1. Mr. Yee shakes hands with

Carma as she greets and welcomes the

principal, a known figure at Lawrence Junior

High School. Carma further states, “I

remember always hearing about the Principal

but never had a chance to personally speak to

him about the school. So I was intrigued, just

as many are here at Lawrence.”

(A picture of Mr. Yee and Carma Lopez from the interview.)

Before Mr. Yee became a principal at Lawrence, he specialized in teaching Math, Science, and Technology. After earning his bachelor's degree in math and science education, and then a master’s degree in supervision and coaching, he became an assistant principal at two different schools. This soon led to his position as principal. Mr. Yee explains that these educational degrees help him with his role as a principal to support and coach the teachers and staff for the importance of these students' education. “We need to put all of our school’s together for instructional support to make sure that our teachers are providing you with the best lessons and skills to be successful next year and beyond in your education. I’m supporting those teachers with their needs and coaching them to be the best teachers that they can be.”

With being a new principal right after the Covid lockdown, things have changed quite briefly. “After Covid it was tough. Coming back into the building after being home and not being with our friends and with our teachers face-to-face. I’m really proud of what we've done and what our team has accomplished and really how students have stepped up to do great things.” Mr. Yee explains that even though it was difficult coming back to school after the lockdown, he saw many improvements within the school and the community as one. “It's really because of your students, the staff and parents that are really pulling together to make sure you guys are supported at home.” The understanding and support from staff and families made it easier to improve Lawrence and the community close to the school.

Mr Yee Plans to be the principal for as long as he can but clarifies that he may not always be the principal at Lawrence. “There's going to be a time where I move onto the next chapter in my career.” Even as he states that, he ensures the opportunities and learning experience for students. “I want to make sure that you guys and the students beyond have the same access and opportunities to great instruction and skills and tools to be successful” Mr. Yee genuinely wishes to leave Lawrence in a better state than when he first arrived. “I want to make sure Lawrence is good after my time here at Lawrence.”

As Mr. Yee’s positive attitude continues and reveals his enjoyment towards being a principal, he truly finds joy in working alongside the teachers and staff. One thing that Mr. Yee values is living in the moment while not only working, but teaching and cooperating with the students, teachers and staff. “I really try to live in the moment here at lawrence. I love what I’m doing, so I’m not looking too far into the future right now. I’m just trying to get through day by day and one by one with you guys, teachers and staff to make Lawrence the best that it can be.”