Spotlight: Joel Hudec (CA '25)

California Milken Educator Principal Joel Hudec (CA ‘25) brings a heart of service and fun to Brookside Elementary, whether he’s cheering on students, transforming academics, lending a hand to the janitorial team, or jumping into a game of tetherball at recess. From transforming writing instruction to building a culture of inclusivity, his impact reaches the school community. Every day he elevates students, supports teachers, and shapes the future of his district. Hudec received his Milken Educator Award on November 20, 2025.

Milken Family Foundation: How did you feel during your Milken Educator Award surprise?

While I’m usually involved in every detail of our school’s operations, my colleagues pulled off the ultimate feat by keeping me completely oblivious to this celebration. I thought I was assisting with logistics, only to realize the team had been working tirelessly behind my back to honor me. I’m truly touched by their effort and coordination. It was a surreal and humbling experience.

MFF: How did students respond to your Milken Award?

The students are simply hilarious and remain my greatest motivation. Their genuine excitement during the event was so refreshing to witness. It’s that kind of sincerity that reminds me why I love what I do.

MFF: Who are your role models as an educator?

I credit much of my leadership philosophy to a circle of influential mentors. First and foremost is my mother, Lucia Hudec, who has more than 25 years of administrative experience and has been my lifelong coach. I remember being a teen and telling her about incidents I observed at school or on the athletic field, and she would ask me hypothetical questions about how an administrator might navigate the situation.

Additionally, Anne Neal, who supervised me during my tenure as a middle school assistant principal, challenged me to grow through her directness and professional wisdom. I am equally indebted to her. I’ve also been inspired by Carl Coles, a longtime colleague and friend who consistently reminds me to put people first—students, staff and parents.

Finally, Domenica Bernauer’s resilience and approach to challenges serve as the ultimate benchmark for the leader I strive to be.

MFF: What inspired you to be an educator?

I trace my inspiration to enter the field of education back to my time at San Diego State University. Through a mentorship program, I had the privilege of supporting David, a student with special needs whose determination was truly infectious. My time with him catalyzed my professional path, transforming a simple assignment into a lifelong commitment to public education.

MFF: What do you hope students remember from their time with you?

My greatest hope is that my students leave my care as lifelong learners. I aim to foster a genuine love for education by ensuring school is a safe, transformative space for both their minds and their character. Whether their next step is a university, trade school or the workforce, I want them to move forward with a persistent hunger for knowledge and the confidence to keep growing.

MFF: What is your advice to those who want to work in education?

The best educators are the ones who never stop being students themselves. My advice to those starting out is to prioritize self-reflection above all else. In a field filled with external “noise,” your ability to look inward and adapt is what will sustain you throughout your career. Treat every challenge as a learning opportunity, and stay open to those around you. If you are reflective and coachable, there is no limit to how far your understanding and impact can grow.

MFF: What’s one leadership move that most improved student achievement at your school?

To drive student achievement, we launched a schoolwide writing lab designed to bridge the gap between grade levels. This initiative shifted our culture toward collective efficacy, allowing teachers to analyze student work from TK through fifth grade as a unified team. This bird’s-eye view of the writing progression enabled teachers to better support their students’ growth at every stage.

We operate on the philosophy that writing is the ultimate tool for mastery; when students can clearly express what they are learning in writing, they reach significantly higher levels of comprehension.

MFF: How do you balance high expectations with strong support for both students and staff?

I believe high expectations can only be met when they are built on a foundation of strong support. Leadership is a constant calibration of pushing and pulling back, and that balance is only possible through authentic connection. With colleagues, this means identifying and honoring each individual’s unique strengths.

By leaning into what each educator does best, I can empower them to lead from their areas of expertise while providing targeted support to address areas for growth. This approach transforms accountability into a collaborative journey of continuous improvement. Whether it is a student or a staff member, we must first ensure they feel seen and valued for who they are. When a person’s needs are met, they are far more willing and able to reach higher.

MFF: Are you working on any interesting initiatives or new projects these days? Is there anything else you want to share about your school?

Brookside Elementary and Beaumont Unified have been more than just workplaces; they have been environments where I have been able to grow and thrive. I feel fortunate to collaborate with such a talented team of educators who have challenged me and helped shape my professional journey. It is an honor to work alongside colleagues who are as dedicated to our students as they are to supporting one another.

I am currently working on a professional project at Brookside centered on strengthening teacher agency. My goal is to support our educators in reclaiming their intentionality, ensuring every decision made in the classroom is a deliberate, expert choice. When we empower teachers, we foster a more professional, reflective and effective environment for both staff and students.