Standing at the search table next to the Evolv machines, Mr. Pedro “Pete” Cavazos introduces himself to students on the first day of the second semester. Assuming Mr. John Contrares’ duties after his retirement, Mr. Cavazos serves as the Associate Principal of Facilities and CCMR (College, Career, Military Readiness). In addition to appraising teachers and managing discipline, Cavazos is also responsible for putting in work orders for broken equipment, plumbing, heat, etc.
“[My favorite part] is the students. They’ve been kind and respectful,” Mr. Cavazos said. “I’m still getting to know students but nobody has made me feel like ‘who are you?”’
He previously served as an AP at Mansfield High School and an AP at Sam Houston Junior High in Arlington. Coming from local districts, he often runs into former students who also transferred.
“It’s nice to see them and see they remember my face and name,” Mr. Cavazos said. “It’s cool to see I actually made an impact on them.”
Mr. Cavazos strives to build relationships with students. By participating in events and supporting students, he hopes to help the school culture and be someone to count on.
“I’m really big about ensuring that students have everything they need,” Mr. Cavazos said. “For those students who are having social-emotional problems, I want to be someone that they feel they can come talk to.”
Dr. Stephanie Bonneau, principal, noticed the effort Mr. Cavazos put into building relationships and wanted to make him part of the team. She believes his prior experience as an AP and his caring personality make him a great addition to Legacy.
“He seems to get along with everybody no matter their age- so the students, adults and the parents; really all people,” Dr. Bonneau said. “That’s a real gift.”
By seeing him interact with students often, Dr. Bonneau believes he has a skill in communicating with students personally rather than just academically.
“We needed somebody who had that kind of relationship capacity that could build trust and get along with all the people,” Dr. Bonneau said. “I hope that he is able to find a home here.”
Mr. Cavazos hopes to gain valuable experience as an AP to prepare for a career as a principal. He wants students to feel comfortable with him and know he’s paying attention on a personal level.
“I hope that students will start to recognize me and that they feel comfortable around me,” Mr. Cavazos said. “They will hear me say ‘I love you’ a lot because I believe in letting kids know they’re important to me.”
