Derrick Miller
The Duncan Banner
DUNCAN —
Rodney Calhoun has figured out what it takes to help at-risk students — A big heart.
Calhoun is the new assistant principal at the EDGE Academy. At the alternative education school, he will be working with students who are at-risk of dropping out of school.
“It’s something I’ve always enjoyed doing: Working with at-risk kids,” Calhoun said.
After Tom Berninger retired, Calhoun applied for the position. At the time, Calhoun was a Duncan High School instructional coach, who worked with at-risk students. Part of his rotation included working with the students at the EDGE Academy.
As the assistant principal of the EDGE Academy, Calhoun will be working closely with DHS Principal Gary Reed. Calhoun said he’s excited about working with the students to help them achieve their educational goals.
He said Reed is a great mentor and is ready to tackle the challenges of his new assignment.
“It’s something new,” Calhoun said. “I like it. It’s different. I think it’s going to be good.”
Despite his positive attitude toward the new position, he said he was a bit nervous about taking on the job.
“It’s kind of a lot of responsibility,” Calhoun said. “I’m holding their futures in my hands.
“I don’t want to let them down. They’re good kids.”
Calhoun said he has already learned a lot, although the school year hasn’t begun. He said his stops at the EDGE Academy as an instructional coach gave him an opportunity to talk about the job with Berninger.
Calhoun said Berninger’s dedication to the students was immeasurable.
“Mr. Berninger has big shoes to fill,” Calhoun said. “I came here and was just visiting with him. I knew he had a big heart for the kids. I know that’s what it’s going to take.”
Since taking on the administrative role, Calhoun worked on a strategic plan for the school. On the plan, he listed his primary goals as raise scores for the end of instruction tests, increase attendance and identify at-risk students earlier.
He said identifying at-risk student sooner will require more than just him.
“I’m going to keep up communication with Mr. (Mike) Toone and Mr. Reed and the counselors at the high school and middle school,” Calhoun said. “I just want to serve the kids who need the services we can supply them.”
— Derrick Miller is a reporter for The Duncan Banner. He can be reached at 580-255-5354, Ext. 160, or via e-mail at derrick.miller@duncanbanner.com.
