TEACHER FEATURE: Andrew Schwartz, Baldwin Park Elementary School

Andrew Schwartz is school principal at Baldwin Park Elementary School. As principal, he oversees the overall operation of the school and instruction.

What brought you to your school?

I served as an assistant principal in Orange County Public Schools since 2015, and I was at the point where I wanted to take the next step and lead a school of my own. Baldwin Park stood out to me as an amazing school with an even more amazing community. When the opportunity presented itself to apply to be the next principal, I jumped at the chance.

What do you love most about your school?

I love how invested the entire community is in the success of the school. From the teachers to the families to the local businesses, everyone wants each child (who) comes into our school to be as successful as possible. It is evident the community is willing to come together and do whatever is needed for our kids.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Seeing the smiles on the students’ faces when they know they are loved and cared for. It is extremely rewarding when I get to see our amazing teachers work so hard with our students and see the spark for learning come to life in a student’s eyes.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?  

Prior to relocating to Florida and becoming an educator, I was a firefighter and paramedic in New York. I also was enrolled in nursing school. So, chances are I (would) be doing something in the medical field.

Who influences you?  

My wife and children influence every decision I make.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

Her name was Mrs. Walsh. She was my favorite for two main reasons. The first was that she made learning exciting. She made it applicable to our lives as children. The second and more important reason is because she “got me” as a student and understood how I learned and what it took to educate me. She did not just treat me and my learning style like every other student. If it wasn’t for her, I do not know where I would be.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” I love reading it with my two daughters.

What do you in your spare time?

I love to spend time with my family. I also enjoy cooking and firing up either my smoker or pizza oven on the weekend.

 If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

I would dine with my father. He was taken from us too soon on Sept. 11, 2001. He was the first man I ever knew, and the greatest man I will ever know.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Time travel, because I have so many questions for people from my past, and as I am sure most people would say there are a few things that I would do differently.

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?

Ellio’s Pizza was a daily favorite of mine when I got home from school in the afternoon.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why?

My best friend was, and still is, Jimmy Ervolino. He and I just shared common interests around public service. We are still in touch all the time as we are going on 30 years of friendship. 

What were your extracurricular activities as a student?

I played baseball, volleyball and bowling. I also was a musician playing percussion and piano.