Meet Leroy Gaines

Executive Principal, Acorn Woodland Oakland Unified School District Briefly describe your journey from teacher to Principal. Why did you want to become a school leader? I began my teaching career at Ryan Elementary School in San Jose. I loved my school and students, but wanted to have a greater impact. I enjoyed working with students, but also enjoyed adult learning. I wanted to work in a position that allowed me to work with students, their families and with teachers.

What made you decide to become a Principal in OUSD? I had an opportunity of a lifetime in taking over Acorn Woodland. I knew Kimi Kean, the previous principal, and felt we were aligned in our pedagogy and vision for public schools. She did amazing work getting great systems and people in place. I was just fortunate to be hired on to move the work forward.

How would you best describe your role as Principal of your school? Beautiful Chaos. You never know what’s waiting for you when you walk in the door in the morning. What makes it beautiful is that at the core of 99.9% of this chaos, are our kids and people trying to do what they believe is best for them. My job is to bring some order to the chaos and help people identify the common ground; which is accelerating student learning.

What gets you most excited each day to be Principal at your school?

I really enjoy the entire Acorn Woodland community. It’s an amazing place to work.

What is your biggest accomplishment as a Principal in OUSD? I’m most proud of the number of former Acorn teachers who are now leaders at other sites. I want Acorn Woodland to be seen as a learning lab and believe what we are doing here should be shared and spread. They are all doing powerful work.

What advice do you give students and parents when they first arrive at your school? Read a lot and read often.