Laura Vesga on Transforming Alternative Education & Leading School Turnaround Success (Ep. 48)

In this 48th episode of the Success in South Florida Podcast, host Attorney Adam Rossen sits down with Laura Vesga, a seasoned educator and school turnaround leader, who serves as the principal of North Gardens High School in Miami Gardens, FL.
Laura has dedicated her career to helping underserved student populations succeed in alternative educational settings. She brings a student-centered approach to North Gardens High, leading innovative initiatives like the first-ever Coursera Career & Technical Education (CTE) program in a U.S. high school and a Dual Enrollment partnership with Miami Dade College. Under her leadership, North Gardens High has achieved its highest graduation rate in school history.

If you're passionate about education, leadership, or school reform, this episode is full of insights on alternative education models, student engagement, and strategies for turning around struggling schools.

Episode Highlights:
✅ Laura’s journey in education leadership & school turnaround
✅ How North Gardens High serves students who struggle in traditional settings
✅ The Coursera CTE program – an innovative approach to career education
✅ Creating a student-first culture & helping at-risk youth succeed
✅ The role of special education, alternative pathways & flexible learning
✅ Strategies for leading & managing school reform effectively
✅ Lessons in leadership, innovation, and making an impact in education

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction
01:04 - Laura Vesga’s Background & Passion for Education
02:55 - Special Education & Supporting Underserved Student Populations
05:39 - Why Traditional Schools Don’t Work for Everyone
10:08 - Transitioning to Leadership & The Challenge of School Turnaround
14:59 - Taking Over as Principal at North Gardens High
19:44 - The Unique Approach of North Gardens High School
24:33 - Creating a "Saks Fifth Avenue" Experience in Education
30:50 - How Coursera & Career Education Are Changing Student Outcomes
38:47 - The Importance of Dual Enrollment & College Readiness
42:58 - Leadership, Growth & Building Strong Educational Teams
46:38 - How to Connect with Laura & North Gardens High

About Laura Vesga:
Laura Vesga is a seasoned educational leader with extensive experience in school reform, turnaround strategies, and serving at-risk student populations. Her student-centered approach has helped countless students overcome barriers, earn their diplomas, and move on to technical training or higher education.
As Principal of North Gardens High School, Laura has launched innovative programs, including the first-ever Coursera CTE program at a U.S. high school and a Dual Enrollment partnership with Miami Dade College. In her third year as principal, she has successfully led the school to achieve its highest-ever graduation rate.
 
Recent Roles:

🏫 Principal - North Gardens High School
📌 Director of Special Education - KIPP Miami
📚 Principal - Charter School Associates
🎓 Education:
📚 Florida International University - Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), College of Special Education

About North Gardens High School:

North Gardens High School is a tuition-free public charter school serving grades 9-12 through age 21. With flexible scheduling options (morning & afternoon sessions), the school provides students with a customized, self-paced education, ensuring they can balance their education with work, family, or other responsibilities.

Upon enrollment, students create an Individualized Success Plan (ISP), guiding them toward earning their high school diploma with state-certified teacher support in a computer-based learning environment.

📌 Programs & Highlights:

 ✅ Open Enrollment & F

Learn more about Adam & the Rossen Law Firm at https://www.rossenlawfirm.com/