Fernandez believes Madison demographics mirror the world

MADISON – Karl Fernandez is most impressed by Madison’s vast diversity in a relatively small area. He has served as Assistant Principal at Mill Creek Elementary School since 2016.

At Mill Creek, “our student population represents about 26 different world languages!” he said. “As a former military dependent, being surrounded by diverse ethnic backgrounds is intriguing and even comforting. It’s a reminder of how immense our global society is.”

He is originally from Guam but was born in Germany. He also lived in Italy and the states of New York, California, Texas and Alabama. Fernandez graduated as valedictorian from Guam High School, a Department of Defense Education Activity or DoDEA school, and then settled in the Huntsville area.

Fernandez earned an associate’s degree at Calhoun Community College; bachelor’s degree, biology, Athens State University; master’s degree, teaching, University of West Alabama; education specialist degree, University of Alabama; and instructional leadership certification, Samford University. He is pursuing a doctorate’s degree in instructional leadership at UA.

Fernandez formerly taught at Sparkman High School for eight years in marine and forensic sciences, advanced-placement biology, honors anatomy/physiology and human body systems, a Project Lead the Way biomedical course.

Fernandez devotes much of his volunteer time to mentoring student teachers. “Education has been a passion for me, and I hope to ensure this passion continues in these pre-service teachers,” he said.

“Students deserve the very best teachers they can have. I’d like to think I help, in a very small way, to provide this through my work with student teachers,” Fernandez said.

He owns Reina, a Great Dane, and Phin, a miniature Schnauzer.

“I have a very eclectic musical taste, so I do enjoy all genres of music, even from various decades,” Fernandez said.

Fernandez enjoys dining out at Main Street Cafe, Sakura Steakhouse and Cork & Crust.