MY STORY
my passion
Michael McGrone Sr.
Urban Turnaround Principal
As the Principal of an alternative high school in Chicago, Michael works with young men who are imprisoned for murder, gang activities, and an array of criminal juvenile offenses. He incorporates an authentic approach to vocational and treatment programs, mental health services and individualized programs to meet the unique needs of the students.
Along with dedicated and well-trained staff, the team receives ongoing behavioral management and de-escalating training. The school administration leverages both Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) and Positive Childhood Experiences (PCE) to help build resilience and the necessary tools to cope with the toxic stressors that surround the lives of these young men.
Principal McGrone draws upon his own childhood experiences of growing up in Gary, Indiana - appropriately label "the murder capital of the world" in the mid 1990's. A survivor of physical / emotional abuse and violence living with his nine siblings, he channeled his fear into self-care after his older brother pointed a shot gun to his head and pulled the trigger.
Michael McGrone is a best-selling author, speaker, and inspiration to many across the world for his dedication to serve those who suffer from childhood trauma. He has been featured on the Sally Jessy Raphael show, a contributor in a documentary on inner-city entrepreneurship, and received the Bronze designation for best high school by US NEWS for his turnaround achievements.
As an advocate for students, families, communities, his passion is to end generational trauma by Restoring Hope, Rebuilding Dreams, and Redeeming Lives. He is a father of three and a servant leader of faith in all areas of his life.
Education:
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Bachelors in Psychological & Behavior Studies in Adolescents - Northeastern Illinois University
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Master in Education Administration; Principal Leadership - Governors State University
Recognition:
2015 Excellence in Teaching Award - Rainbow Push Coalition
2018 Chicago Unsung Hero Award - Positive Community Impact
the
concentric
engagement
modelTM
I believe that we are at the forefront of an educational movement that is finally addressing at-risk students who suffer from household trauma through Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) and Adverse Community Environments (ACE). The body of research studies continue to expand and shed light on the multiple factors that contribute to our children's inability to properly deal with toxic stress that occurs in both the household and throughout the local community, also known as a Pair of Aces.
The Concentric Engagement Model (CEM) is a framework that leverages Trauma Informed Care (TIC) in the school setting to better care and support the student to foster a sense of agency and gain a healthy control over their lives. The model incorporates Positive Childhood Experiences (PCE) to help build resilience in the family, school, and community environments,
Restore Hope,
Rebuild Dreams,
Redeem Lives