Out with the “knew,” in with the “newer”

Written by Sebastian Martinez

Summer ended, school is in session; it’s been several weeks into the semester and for the Senior class of `19, we’re all back into the draining yet worthwhile reality called school. However, one guy on campus recently dealt with an extraordinary change heading into the 2018-2019 school year: Mr. Jeff Austin. Over the summer, Mr.Austin was named the new principal of SJHA. Certainly, seniors who expected things to stay the same for four years are still coping with the loss of the former principal Mr.Navarro, but the addition of Mr.Austin, previously an assistant principal and one of the original founders of Social Justice Humanitas Academy, makes it seem as if the school never lost a beat. In fact, students are soaring over getting to know Mr.Austin and his upbeat personality.  

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The only downside to our new principal is that none of us received the opportunity to be taught by Mr.Austin. He taught AP Government to every graduating class before us. I don’t think any of us are complaining though, as he has so far met our standards for running the school. Plus, you can’t miss him. Mr. Austin’s vibrant character shines throughout the whole campus. I never miss a chance to say good morning when I arrive to school. His experience here has been great not only for him but for the students as well. Mr. Austin has also gained a lot from this experience as well. Aside from taking a lot of naps, Mr. Austin said, “Obviously we’ve had some tough things to deal with, but also some good things. It’s just been a new, kind of busy, kind of crazy experience so far, but I’m enjoying it mostly.”

Aside from the strong start, the school year has already had its ups and downs. This summer entering the new school year, Social Justice Humanitas had to say goodbye to about 10 teachers. TEN ! Coming into my senior year, I was a little discouraged after losing our previous principal who has been here since the school opened, as well as some of my favorite teachers. However, I quickly became optimistic after the first week or so. Mr. Austin and the new staff has made this year feel as welcoming as ever. Social Justice Humanitas has an environment and a culture that has a created a legacy of this not only being a school, but a second home. Mr. Austin and the rest of the staff have done a great job of finding great new teachers and stepping in for lost ones.Humanitas has a recital that exemplifies the school, and it goes by “In Lak’ech.” In Lak’ech translates as “I am your other you and you are my other me”OutO which means that we support and have each other's backs no matter what. “In Lak’ech” echoes into the fantastic culture that has been created here at Humanitas. This school year has been a wild ride so far, and I am definitely excited to finish it.

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