Thurston King
Land O' Lakes,FL
Summary
Organizational leader with 15+ years of experience driving results through training, customer success strategies, and team leadership. Known for building scalable training systems, leveraging AI & data analytics, and improving engagement, retention, and outcomes. Proven record Leading cross-functional teams to deliver high-impact professional development Designing and scaling training programs that improve customer adoption and retention. Using data dashboards and AI-driven insights to optimize training, measure KPI’s, and align with business goals. Turning underperforming teams into high performing groups with consistent results. Passionate about helping educators and organizations succeed by aligning technology, training, and customer success strategies.
Experienced with educational leadership and student development. Utilizes strategic planning to improve academic outcomes and support teacher growth. Knowledge of creating collaborative environment and managing administrative tasks efficiently.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Principal
Gulf High School
New Port Richey, Florida
07.2022 - Current
- Lead and manage cross-functional teams (counselors, coaches, contractors) to implement customer success-style initiatives for 1,400+ students.
- Designed scalable training programs improving teacher adoption of tech tools, instructional alignment, and engagement strategies.
- Raised graduation rate to 91% (highest in school history) while cutting discipline referrals by 54% in 3 years.
- Leveraged AI-powered data dashboards to forecast needs, track KPIs, and guide professional development.
- Partnered with district teams and external trainers to deliver tailored customer training & optimization programs.
- Developed and implemented academic programs to enhance student engagement and achievement.
- Collaborated with faculty to design professional development workshops focused on instructional strategies.
- Facilitated professional development workshops for faculty to enhance instructional practices.
- Implemented school-wide initiatives to improve student engagement and academic performance.
Dean of Students
Godwin Heights Public Schools
Grand Rapids, MI
03.2020 - 01.2022
- Conducted performance evaluations and provided actionable feedback to improve staff effectiveness.
- Led initiatives to create a positive organizational culture and boost team morale.
- Developed and executed strategies to improve attendance and engagement through targeted outreach and client relations.
- Coordinated events to strengthen relationships with stakeholders, including families and the community.
- Designed personalized improvement plans for individuals needing compliance support.
- Implemented success initiatives to recognize and encourage high performance.
- Optimized resource utilization and integrated new technologies to enhance operational efficiency.
- Developed strategies to improve behavior management and created supportive environments across the organization.
- Improved policies and procedures to maximize safety and security.
- Developed and implemented student support programs enhancing academic performance and social-emotional well-being.
- Led disciplinary processes ensuring fair and consistent application of school policies and regulations.
Assistant Principal
Covenant House Academy
Grand Rapids, MI
09.2014 - 03.2020
- Provided leadership in developing, implementing, and monitoring recovery and retention programs.
- Managed organization-wide behavior management systems and disciplinary processes.
- Supervised security operations to ensure a safe and secure work environment.
- Collaborated with team members to optimize planning and execution of projects.
- Developed and maintained partnerships with community organizations to enhance service delivery.
- Implemented intervention strategies to support at-risk individuals, promoting successful program completion.
Homeless Liaison
Covenant House Academy
Grand Rapids, MI
05.2014 - 11.2019
- Delivered training sessions on regulatory compliance and the rights of at-risk populations.
- Ensured organizational compliance with federal and state regulations.
- Assisted clients in accessing essential services and resources.
Attendance Officer
Covenant House Academy
Grand Rapids, MI
03.2014 - 09.2014
- Collaborated with leadership and stakeholders to develop strategies aimed at improving attendance and retention rates.
- Maintained and analyzed records to identify trends and implement improvement strategies.
- Developed and enforced policies to enhance operational efficiency and compliance.
Student Personnel Officer
Gerald R. Ford Job Corps
Grand Rapids, MI
05.2008 - 03.2014
- Investigated incidents, maintained documentation, and ensured compliance with federal guidelines.
- Developed programs to promote safety, accountability, and awareness of consequences within the organization.
- Analyzed behavior trends and data to implement improvements in measurable outcomes.
- Fostered external relationships to bring additional resources and opportunities to the organization.
- Created and enforced organizational policies to ensure consistency and clarity.
Education
Master's Degree - Educational Leadership K-12
Grand Valley State University
Grand Rapids, MI01-2006
BBA - Political Science
Grand Valley State University
Grand Rapids, MISkills
- Leadership & Team Development
- Training & Professional Development
- Stakeholder Engagement & Relationship Management
- Compliance & Policy Enforcement
- Program Development & Implementation
- Conflict Resolution & Behavior Management
- Data Analysis & Strategic Planning
- Instructional leadership
Timeline
Assistant Principal
Gulf High School
07.2022 - Current
Dean of Students
Godwin Heights Public Schools
03.2020 - 01.2022
Assistant Principal
Covenant House Academy
09.2014 - 03.2020
Homeless Liaison
Covenant House Academy
05.2014 - 11.2019
Attendance Officer
Covenant House Academy
03.2014 - 09.2014
Student Personnel Officer
Gerald R. Ford Job Corps
05.2008 - 03.2014
Master's Degree - Educational Leadership K-12
Grand Valley State University
BBA - Political Science
Grand Valley State University