When Adrian Magana walks through the halls of CICS Prairie today as Assistant Dean, he's also walking through memories of his own childhood. Having attended CICS Prairie from Kindergarten through 8th grade, Adrian's connection to the school runs deeper than most. "It felt like family from the beginning," he reflects, noting how his class stayed together throughout their journey, creating bonds that last to this day.
Adrian's academic excellence at CICS Prairie led to an extraordinary achievement: skipping 7th grade. "The curriculum was challenging, even though I always excelled," he shares. "The environment made it easy to focus, which gave me an advantage going into high school." Now, as Assistant Dean at CICS Prairie, Adrian wears many hats—from high school counselor to social media advocate, translator, and recruitment specialist.
Adrian's decision to return to CICS Prairie was inspired by the meaningful connections he built with both former and current staff, including former CICS Prairie teacher and current Resident Principal at CICS Longwood Elementary, Yvonne Glenn. What makes his role even more special is seeing his friends' children now attending CICS Prairie, carrying forward the sense of community he cherished as a student. "It's a joy to come to work and see so many familiar faces," Adrian says. "It doesn't feel like work. I especially enjoy mentoring the students. When they ask questions, they're the same ones I used to ask—it reminds me of when I was a student here."
Adrian's leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in his CICS Prairie experience. "When I was a student, we were big on being respectful and kind to each other," he explains. "In my role as Assistant Dean, I take pride in teaching respect and manners. I want them [students] to give each other that positive push and confidence to be successful." Adrian's impact on CICS Prairie extends beyond classroom walls. He helped pioneer the school's sports programs, establishing the soccer team and getting it involved in the Sports Can Open Roads to Excellence (SCORE) program. This initiative, among others, helped create the vibrant athletic culture CICS Prairie enjoys today.
His advice to current CICS Prairie students? "Prairie can be whatever you make it to be. They give you all the tools to be successful, so take advantage of it." He points to a recent example where Damarreon, a 7th grader proposed starting a student council—an idea that became reality. "Come up with an idea, push it to the right person, and just be YOU. You can do whatever you set your mind to at Prairie."
Adrian's journey from student to leader embodies the transformative power of a CICS Prairie education—where today's students become tomorrow's mentors, continuing a legacy of excellence, respect, and community.
Adrian Magana’s Journey from Student to Leader
December 10, 2024