EAS Staff Spotlight: Dan Barajas

Spotlight on Leadership: Dan Barajas, Assistant Principal of Escondido Adult School
Dr. Dan Barajas, Assistant Principal of Escondido Adult School (EAS), has deep roots in Escondido, CA, where he was born and raised. A graduate of San Pasqual High School (Class of 1996), Dan's passion for education was evident early on as an AVID tutor for students at both San Pasqual and Escondido High Schools. His journey in education began formally when he earned his degree from California State University San Marcos and joined the teaching staff at Valley High School in 2005.

Over the years, Dan's career trajectory has been impressive. He transitioned into administration in 2011, serving as both assistant principal and principal at Valley High School before taking on roles at Del Lago Academy and Escondido High School. Between 2021 and 2023, Dan made a district-wide impact as a Multi-Tier Systems of Support (MTSS) specialist for the Escondido Union High School District. His recent appointment as Assistant-Principal of EAS for the 2024-25 academic year marks another chapter in his mission to support adult learners.

Dan’s commitment to leadership and service is reflected in his numerous roles within the education and local community. He is a past president of the Escondido Rotary Club After 5  and actively participates in the DLAC District English Language Advisory Committee. Additionally, he serves as Secretary of the Executive Board for the Education Compact, Assistant President of the Salvation Army Advisory Board, Assistant President of the California Continuation Education Association, and a regional representative for Region 18 of the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Adult Education Council.

At home, Dan is a proud husband to a fellow educator and father to three children. His oldest son is following in his footsteps, studying to become a social science teacher, while his daughter and youngest son are thriving in high school and middle school, respectively.

When not immersed in his work or community service, Dan enjoys restoring vintage cars, with his current project being a 1987 Chevy truck. He also takes pride in supporting his daughter’s travel softball endeavors.

Dan’s vision for Escondido Adult School centers on observing and amplifying the positive impacts of the ETCN consortium. He admires the camaraderie and collaborative efforts of his colleagues, who are committed to transforming the lives of adult learners. His goal is to build on the school’s achievements and ensure every adult student’s needs are met with excellence.