A Conversation with Principal Hernandez

At Playworks Southern California, we know that play is more than just recess, it’s a catalyst for connection, joy, and community building. No one embodies this better than Principal Hernandez of 112th Street Elementary in Watts, California.

 We recently had the privilege of hearing from Principal Hernandez during a Playworks board meeting, where he shared an inspiring look at how the program is already making a meaningful impact just months into implementation.

Meet Principal Hernandez: Leading with Heart in Watts

For eight years, Principal Hernandez has led 112th Street Elementary, a school located in the heart of Nickerson Gardens, the largest public housing development in Los Angeles – an area known for both its challenges and its deep sense of community pride. The community he serves is resilient, resourceful, and deserves the very best support, and he’s the first to acknowledge the responsibility and opportunity that comes with that. 

“We have a unique community of students here that is in a huge need of support,” he said. “And I can’t think of a better partnership than Playworks.”

This year, Hernandez and his team welcomed Coach Marvin, their site’s new Playworks Coach. And it didn’t take long for him to become a vital part of the school’s recess team.

A New Energy on the Playground

“Just 24 hours ago, I was outside observing Coach Marvin and my team at recess,” Hernandez recalled. “I saw things happening that simply weren’t happening before.”

Before Playworks, recess often meant groups of kids playing while others sat on the sidelines, disconnected or unsure of how to join in. Now?

“Kids are participating. They’re out there chasing the ball, laughing, and engaging in all sorts of games – handball, tetherball, kickball, foursquare. These ‘old school’ games are back in full force.”

The games may be familiar, but the feeling is new: more full participation, structure, and joy.

More Than Just a Coach—A Culture Shift

Hernandez isn’t just talking about change in the students. He’s seen Playworks impact his entire staff.

“One of the best things Playworks has brought is confidence, not just for our students, but for my staff,” he shared. “Coach Marvin models what a successful, engaging recess looks like. Then my team takes those strategies and keeps it going on their own.”

At 112th Street Elementary, the Playworks model is implemented in weekly cycles—one week of direct coaching and modeling, followed by one week where the school staff runs with it, putting the tools and strategies into practice.

“That’s the key to sustainability,” Hernandez noted. “If Coach Marvin had to step away for any reason, my team would still be equipped to carry the work forward. That’s powerful.”

Building Capacity for the Long-Term

What stands out most about Principal Hernandez’s leadership is his deep belief in building internal capacity. For him, the long game matters.

That’s why he’s especially excited for the upcoming launch of the Junior Coach Leadership Program, where upper-grade students will be trained to lead games for younger students.

“We’re in the early stages, identifying students who are ready to step into those roles, but I can’t wait to see it in action. When our own students take the lead, that’s when real ownership happens.”

A Community Approach to Play

Hernandez also emphasized the importance of collaboration and community support. Thanks to Playworks’ growing network of partners, schools like 112th Street are starting to receive support beyond the playground.

“We’re going to be working with other organizations who will be coming into our community through Playworks,” he shared. “They’ll be bringing in additional resources, helping fill needs we have beyond play because the need is real, and it’s deep.”

Playworks Southern California Executive Director, Celeste Soto highlighted one such partnership in the works: a multi-part engagement series with Jonathan Louis Furniture Company, which will include donations for the school’s staff lounge and classroom supplies.

“Principal Hernandez has even created what he calls the 112th’s “Fun Zone,” a space for students who may not feel comfortable on the playground to engage in fun, skill-building activities in a safe and welcoming environment,” Soto said. “It’s filled with arcade games, basketball contests, and a prize center. It’s even better than Chuck E. Cheese.”

A Principal Who Leads Like a Coach

Throughout the conversation, it was clear: Principal Hernandez leads like a coach himself with energy, vision, and deep care for his community.

“You are the ambassador to your school,” Soto told him during the meeting, “but I really feel like you were a Playworks Coach in a different life.”

To that, Hernandez humbly replied: “I do everything because I have an awesome staff. And now, Playworks is part of that staff. We’re working together and it’s working.”

Looking Ahead

As the school year continues, Hernandez is already imagining what the next few months will look like with Playworks fully embedded.

“I’m in awe of all the wonderful things already happening,” he said. “And we’re just getting started.”

Want to Help Build Community Through Play?

Playworks is proud to work alongside passionate leaders like Principal Hernandez to create joyful, invitingclusive schools where every kid can experience the power of play.

📍 Interested in bringing Playworks to your school or supporting a community like 112th Street Elementary? Learn more about Playworks Southern California

🧡 Want to donate equipment or sponsor a Junior Coach cohort?
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