CBS2/KCAL9 President Becomes 'Principal For A Day'

 WEST HILLS (CBSLA.com) — Local schools, faced with budget cuts, are looking for new and interesting ways to motivate the kids.

Enadia Way, a new charter school in West Hills, has come up with a "Principal For A Day" program introducing young people to leaders in the community.

CBS2 and KCAL9 President and General Manager Steve Mauldin put on the principal's hat Friday.

He took part in an awards ceremony. And CBS2 and KCAL9 reporter Melissa McCarty was also there.

Mauldin told the kids, "Study hard, work real hard and anything is possible."

He helped hand out hundreds of certificates to deserving students who have shown achievements in the classroom.

Mauldin also motivated the students by talking about the importance of teachers. "My teachers had an amazing influence on my life."

The school is modern and advanced. Every classroom has innovative interactive smart boards.

Mauldin enjoyed the experience of meeting young people and discussing their hopes for the future. "Going out in it," he said, "you get a real sense of the challenges and their accomplishments."

Enadia Way reopened after being closed more then 30 years ago.

The new principal, Vivian Cordoba, says the school is now thriving -- in attendance and test scores. "The children today ... the jobs they're going to need aren't even created [yet.] So we want them to be prepared for the 22nd century."

With so many budget cuts, schools are hoping the business and the corporate world can step in and help out.

"Businesses being involved, along with the parents, but it really has to be the businesses to make a difference," said Mauldin.

McCarty talked to a young student who summed up the feelings of her motivated classmates. "I love to come to learn," she said.

It is hoped that "Principal For A Day" will encourage other business and community leaders to offer equipment, funds or mentoring.