Data-driven educational administrator with over 15 years of experience leading systematic, evidence-based improvements to student achievement, school climate, and college and career readiness. Expertise in aligning curriculum, assessment, staff development, and resources to measurable outcomes through continuous improvement and equity-focused practices.
Hi, I’m
Diyaira Durham
Beaumont,CA
Summary
Overview
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Real Journey Academies
Principal
01.2024 - 12.2025
Job overview
- Led the turnaround of a high-need high school by leveraging California School Dashboard, CAASPP, attendance, and discipline data to design, implement, and monitor strategic improvement plans aligned to LCAP goals, supplemental and concentration funding, and district accountability priorities.
- Increased graduation rate by 5.5 percentage points (88% to 93.5%) through implementation of student persistence strategies, credit recovery systems, and targeted interventions for at-promise students.
- Improved English Learner Progress by 30%, reaching 48.5%, by strengthening language development systems and ensuring compliance with state and federal requirements for special populations, resulting in 0% Special Education compliance deficiencies.
- Trained and coached teachers in effective instructional strategies, classroom management, and behavior intervention, contributing to a 92% course pass rate and an 7% average increase in Math and ELA CAASPP performance (2024).
- Improved school climate and attendance by enforcing academic, discipline, and attendance expectations, resulting in a 14.6% reduction in suspensions, a 5% increase in Average Daily Attendance (ADA), and a 20% reduction in chronic absenteeism.
- Expanded college and career readiness outcomes by increasing A–G completion rates, growing Dual Enrollment participation, and expanding Career Technical Education (CTE) course access, establishing sustainable systems for college and postsecondary readiness pathways.
CJUSD
Assistant Principal
06.2018 - 01.2024
Job overview
- Received Platinum recognition from the CA PBIS Coalition for outstanding contributions to a positive school climate. Successfully achieved a 30% reduction in disciplinary incidents during the 2022-2023 school year, by implementing effective strategies to promote positive behavior and reduce disciplinary referrals.
- Demonstrated a commitment to student and staff well-being by creating and expanding the High School Wellness Center, collaborating with district and community agencies to provide comprehensive support for social and emotional needs.
- Demonstrated expertise in developing the master schedule and strategically allocating human resources to maximize student outcomes. Collaborated with administrators, counselors, and department heads to align the master schedule with district and school-wide goals, initiatives, and academic programs.
- Played a key role in the development and implementation of staff development and in-service training programs, focusing on areas such as Social Emotional Learning/Wellness, Instructional Differentiation/Accommodations, Cultural Proficiency, and Equity, promoting professional growth among district and site personnel.
- Expertly managed high school facilities, ensuring they were well-maintained and operable for educational and extracurricular opportunities for the community. Coordinated and supervised custodial staff and support personnel to maintain cleanliness and orderliness throughout the school facilities.
CJUSD
Summer School Principal
06.2019 - 07.2023
Job overview
- Achieved an impressive 96% pass rate at the end of the 2023 Summer School through targeted efforts in academic intervention, effective progress monitoring, instructional differentiation, and providing clear and explicit resources for students with diverse language needs.
- Developed the master schedule of classes, optimizing resource allocation and student enrollment for a comprehensive summer curriculum.
- Implemented effective hiring processes, including reference checks and background screenings, to ensure the selection of candidates who contribute positively to the school community.
- Effectively supervised and disciplined students on campus before and after school, maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment in accordance with established guidelines.
- Actively engaged in informal and formal classroom visitations and observations, ensuring instructional quality and providing teachers valuable feedback for continuous improvement.
- Prioritized clear communication and collaboration with parents, guardians, and educational stakeholders to foster a positive and supportive educational environment during the summer session.
CJUSD
Adult Basic Education Instructor
08.2016 - 06.2017
Job overview
- Utilized Aztec Learning online software to monitor student progress and evaluate their performance, providing personalized feedback and interventions as needed.
- Prepared students for GED preparation courses, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to increase the graduation rate among adult learners.
- Implemented a comprehensive approach that combined integrated real-life applications and workplace simulations with a variety of instructional strategies and resources, creating a dynamic learning environment that promoted practical and relevant experiences for adult learners.
- Collaborated with colleagues and participated in professional development opportunities to stay updated with best practices in adult education and instructional techniques.
CJUSD
Summer School Teacher
06.2015 - 07.2018
Job overview
- Effectively utilized Odysseyware online software to monitor student progress, track performance, and provide timely feedback and support.
- Implemented a flexible curriculum solution to increase the graduation rate and decrease the dropout rate within CJUSD, providing students with alternative pathways to complete their education.
- Employed differentiated instructional strategies and resources to cater to diverse learning styles and abilities, promoting engagement and success among students in the summer school program.
- Created a positive and inclusive classroom environment, fostering a sense of belonging, motivation, and academic growth among students.
- Established effective communication channels with parents and guardians to keep them informed of student progress, academic goals, and any additional support needed.
CJUSD
Biology Teacher
09.2011 - 05.2018
Job overview
- Implemented a culturally relevant science curriculum tailored specifically for at-risk high school students, fostering a positive and inclusive classroom environment, promoting respect, collaboration, and open dialogue among students from diverse backgrounds.
- Developed lessons aligned to Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and English Language Development (ELD) standards, employing a constructivist learning theory to promote student-centered and inquiry-based instruction.
- Utilized a variety of 21st-century assessment styles, including Student Response Systems (SRS), rubrics, performance assessments, and student self/peer evaluations, to gauge student progress, provide targeted feedback, and adjust instruction accordingly, ensuring continuous improvement and achievement of learning objectives.
- Integrated innovative technology platforms such as Google Apps for Education and PowerSchool to enhance classroom operations, streamline administrative tasks, monitor student growth, and foster increased family engagement in the learning process.
- Leveraged technology tools to create interactive and engaging learning experiences, such as virtual labs, online simulations, and multimedia resources, to promote deeper understanding and application of biology concepts.
- Collaborated with colleagues to share resources, discuss instructional strategies, and contribute to the overall improvement of the science department and student achievement.
Education
LSUShreveport, LA
Bachelors of Art Finance from Real Estate
01.2024
University Overview
CSUSBSan Bernardino, CA
Masters of Art Education from Educational Administration
01.2016
University Overview
Administrative Service Credential (2016)
CSUSBSan Bernardino, CA
Masters of Arts Education from K-12 Curriculum & Instruction
01.2013
University Overview
Single Subject Teaching Credential- Biological Sciences (2011)
CSUSBSan Bernardino, CA
Bachelors of Science Biology from Pre-Medicine
01.2009
University Overview
Minor in Finance
Skills
- Staff Development and Leadership
- Program implementation
- Student performance data
- School culture
- School safety and security
- School community relations
Affiliations
Affiliations
- Association of California School Administrators Region 12 (ACSA) Aug 2022 - Present
- California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators (CAASA) Mar 2020 - Present
- CJUSD HR Negotiations Aug 2023 - Jan 2024
- Equity Task Force CJUSD Jan 2023 - Jan 2024
- National Institute of School Leadership (NISL) Jan 2019 - Mar 2021
Timeline
Principal
Real Journey Academies
01.2024 - 12.2025
Summer School Principal
CJUSD
06.2019 - 07.2023
Assistant Principal
CJUSD
06.2018 - 01.2024
Adult Basic Education Instructor
CJUSD
08.2016 - 06.2017
Summer School Teacher
CJUSD
06.2015 - 07.2018
Biology Teacher
CJUSD
09.2011 - 05.2018
CSUSB
Masters of Art Education from Educational Administration
CSUSB
Masters of Arts Education from K-12 Curriculum & Instruction
CSUSB
Bachelors of Science Biology from Pre-Medicine
LSU
Bachelors of Art Finance from Real Estate
LINKS
LINKS
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/diyaira-durham