INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Brian Sanchez Corona, Water Spring Middle School

Dr. Brian Sanchez Corona is the principal at Water Spring Middle School but will be taking the helm at Horizon High School as of Monday, Dec. 1. 

Sanchez Corona holds a bachelor’s degree in Exceptional Student Education; a master’s in Reading Education; a Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction: Reading; a Specialist in Educational Leadership; and doctorate in Educational Leadership. All his degrees are from the University of Central Florida. 

What made you want to be an educator?

Being born into a household with two blind parents presented some educational complexities. It was my compassionate public school teachers who recognized this and provided the necessary assistance and wrap-around services. Because of their support throughout the years, I thrived and wanted to dedicate my career to giving back through education.

What are you looking forward to most about being the principal at Horizon High?

First and foremost, I am excited to support some of my former Wildcats, who are now Hawks, for many more years! I am also genuinely looking forward to being a part of students finding their career trajectory in our fast-paced society. Finally, I truly love all the school events that add to the whole public high school experience: football games, Homecoming, prom, signing days, e-sports, chess, and culinary competitions, which fill my cup every day!

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is supporting a student to reach their highest potential possible. It makes my day when a family understands that we are here to support their Hawk in development and future endeavors. The icing on the cake is when we are able to convince students that not only can they graduate, but they can also have purpose and an amazing career with the right tools and a little perspective.

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

If I were not a principal, I think I would have joined the armed services. I love travel and would have loved to live on bases around the world, experiencing other cultures and customs. I also would have most likely specialized in information technology or coding.

Who influences you?

I stand on the shoulders of giants. My fellow teachers and administrators influence me daily to push harder, adapt and reach new heights. I do not like being stagnant, and the school system is perfect for those who thrive in environments of growth and change.

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

My favorite teacher in high school was Ms. Wilson. She challenged me academically and personally, seeing the potential in me and refusing to allow me to turn in assignments that reached the bare minimum. Ms. Wilson stressed that I must use my full potential with any task at hand, often handing whole papers back and saying, "No, it's good but it is not great. Revise or do over. You are better than that." She pushed me to become a true lifelong learner.

What is your favorite subject in school and why?

I truly love math and science. They make sense to me because they are logical and follow a defined progression; there is a certain beauty in that. I also think it is amazing that new discoveries in science recently are even having us rewrite portions of science textbooks. What a time to be alive!

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love riding my motorcycle around Lake Apopka and lifting weights at the gym, as both give me time to think about my day, pause, reflect and adjust for the next time. I am also a foodie and love restaurants —you can find me anywhere there are great buffalo wings.

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

I would love to dine with Horace Mann, the founding father of the free public school. What a radical thought at the time: every person receiving a free education! I would love to discuss how he saw this vision taking shape in our current future and how he would adjust based on advances in technology and changes in society. Horace Mann could offer such an interesting perspective on our current version of public schools.

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

I would love to be able to control the weather. Storm from “X-Men” is one of my favorite comic book characters from my youth (Marvel OVER DC always)! Not only is she disciplined, — because she has to be — she is patient and wise, and many seek her counsel. With great power comes great responsibility — someone else in comics said that as well.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

The Animals, Shakira and Enrique Iglesias. Who doesn't like to lift weights or ride to "House of the Rising Sun," "Waka Waka" or “Bailando”?

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

My favorite lunch in elementary school was easily chicken nuggets, made even better with a tangy ketchup and mustard sauce—try it; it’s phenomenal! I loved white chocolate as a kid, but now I love any type of chocolate.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

I adore Thanksgiving. I love getting all the family together, having different types of amazing food and just sitting around making each other laugh. We play a fun game in my family called "fishbowl," which is a combination of charades, catch phrase and password.

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

My best friend growing up was my Boy Scout master. Though we have grown apart over time due to life, he and his wife re-enter at just the right time with just the right advice when needed. We have had an amazing relationship that has shaped my adult life.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

As a student, I was involved in baseball, I was president of the Amateur Radio Club (KE4YTX was my call sign), and I was president of the Latin Club. In baseball, I loved playing left field, shortstop and catcher.