Celebrating Dr. Hargrave: A Leader Shaping the Future of Burns Sci-Tech

At Burns Science & Technology Charter School, we are proud to celebrate one of our most dedicated leaders: Dr. Daniel Hargrave, who recently earned his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in School and Organizational Leadership from Saint Leo University. This remarkable achievement reflects decades of hard work, passion, and an unwavering commitment to education and student success.

A simple, yet powerful belief has guided Dr. Hargrave’s journey in education: every student deserves the opportunity to thrive. His academic path began with a bachelor’s degree at Florida State University and a master’s degree at Georgia Southern University. In 2004, he made a career shift to become a biology and marketing teacher at New Smyrna Beach High School, where he also shared his love for athletics by coaching basketball and football.

Always driven to grow as an educator and a leader, Dr. Hargrave pursued a degree in educational leadership at Stetson University. With a desire to understand every aspect of school leadership, he requested to learn every role within a school system. The Area Superintendents at Volusia County Schools recognized his dedication, promoting him year after year from academic coach to testing coordinator, discipline dean, ESE assistant principal, data assistant principal, and principal intern. Each step of his journey strengthened his vision of what a school could be for students.

During his principal internship, Dr. Hargrave was recruited by Burns Sci-Tech to help students transition to high school and eventually lead the secondary school. He joined Burns in March 2017 as an assistant principal, taking on responsibilities ranging from discipline and facilities to staff evaluations and curriculum development.

When Burns began the ambitious project of building its own high school, Dr.

Hargrave’s leadership proved instrumental. He authored and defended critical portions of the charter application, navigated challenges with resilience, and ultimately helped secure approval to expand the school. From designing the building and developing curriculum to recruiting and training staff, he poured his heart into creating an environment where students could truly flourish.

Dr. Hargrave has never been afraid to roll up his sleeves. In the early days of Burns High School, he taught biology and entrepreneurship, coached and refereed sports, and handled countless administrative responsibilities, all while leading the school. His energy and commitment to students set the tone for a culture of excellence and care.

Since opening the new Burns High School building in 2022, he has continued to guide the secondary school with vision and compassion. Under his leadership, the administrative team has grown into a strong, collaborative unit dedicated to student success. Together, they ensure every student has the support and opportunities they need to excel academically, socially, and personally.

Dr. Hargrave’s vision for Burns extends beyond academics. He has developed programs like the College and Career archways and “Burns World,” a simulated real-world environment where students practice critical life skills like financial literacy, business decision-making, and problem-solving, preparing them for success long after graduation.

His dedication also reaches into the wider community. As a Student Life Skills adjunct professor at Daytona State College and a member of the SEV Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Dr. Hargrave builds connections that benefit students and help them envision their future paths.

Earning his Doctor of Education is a crowning achievement in a career defined by service, leadership, and a genuine love for students. But for those who know Dr. Hargrave, it is simply a continuation of a lifelong journey devoted to learning, growing, and making a difference.

At Burns Sci-Tech, we are inspired every day by his vision, energy, and heart. Dr. Hargrave’s work reminds us that education is about more than knowledge; it’s about relationships, opportunity, and the unwavering belief in the potential of every student.

Please join us in celebrating Dr. Daniel Hargrave, an extraordinary educator, leader, and advocate for students.