About Dr. Joe Gonzales
Superintendent - East Austin College Prep

Dr. Joe E. Gonzales has brought his 50 years of experience and expertise in public school administration to a grateful East Austin College Prep. His results and accomplishments in the field of education have been recognized by fellow educators and leaders across the nation. He was the first Hispanic Superintendent in Michigan, and has received the U.S. Department of Education’s prestigious John Stanford Hero’s award. His leadership qualities have been highlighted by NBC Nightly News and the Texas Tribune. Dr. Gonzales has been honored by the State of Texas and the City of Austin for his accomplishments in working with former dropouts and was the sole dropout recovery charter school principal to speak at the 2010 National Charter Schools Conference in Chicago.

Who do you think was the greatest leader? Why?
My mother was the greatest leader in my life. At an early age, she taught us through her words and actions how to live life with honor and how to act appropriately. She showed in me her integral values that have guided my actions and helped me become who I am today.
What are the key things you would counsel someone coming into the workforce?
Don't get into education or dedicate your life working with children if you are unable to be selfless. Great educators work without ego, because their ultimate goal is helping fulfill someone else's dreams.
What is the most rewarding thing about working in public/social service?
As an educator, I have come to realize the greatest legacy of working in this profession is the imprint we leave on the students we work with. Many children do not have positive adult figures in their lives, we as teachers and educators have the ability to be their advocates and influence their lives for the better.
When you were 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I knew I wanted to be in a vocation that allowed me to work with people. At the time, I didn’t know if that meant becoming a policeman, fireman or teacher. I chose education and I've been glad ever since.
How long have you lived in Austin? What brought you here?
I've lived in Austin for the past four and a half years. I came here because I had the challenging opportunity to work with drop-out students who had lost hope and were not making it in our society. We were able to do great things for those students. Another reason I came to Austin is because of the city itself; it’s a city with an open mind and you can try new educational approaches without having people hammering at you for thinking outside the box.