Principal Dewana C. McDuffie 

Principal, C. G. Bethel High School, North Miami Beach, Florida

Dewana C. McDuffie is an accomplished educational leader with more than 20 years of experience in K–12 education, specializing in instructional leadership, student achievement, school improvement, academic advising, and building positive school cultures. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to ensuring that every student is provided with equitable opportunities to achieve academic success and prepare for college, careers, and life beyond high school. 

Mrs. McDuffie currently serves as the Principal of CG Bethel High School, where she leads with a student-centered philosophy rooted in collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. Prior to becoming principal, she served as the school’s Master Classroom PLC Leader and School Counselor, providing academic advising and graduation planning for approximately 350 students while guiding more than 150 seniors annually toward successful graduation and postsecondary opportunities. 

Throughout her career, Mrs. McDuffie has demonstrated exceptional leadership in developing and implementing school improvement initiatives, analyzing student achievement data, supporting accreditation efforts, and leading multidisciplinary teams. She has worked collaboratively with teachers, families, community partners, and district leaders to strengthen instructional practices, improve graduation outcomes, and foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. 

As Chairperson of the School-Based Teacher Management Team (SBTMT), Mrs. McDuffie successfully facilitated collaborative decision-making among faculty and staff while promoting student well-being and maintaining a positive school climate. She also played an integral role on the school’s SACS Accreditation Team and has contributed to the annual development and implementation of the School Improvement Plan. 

Mrs. McDuffie’s passion for student success extends beyond the classroom. She has established mentoring and community engagement initiatives, including the Shop Talk and Bethel Cares Program, creating meaningful opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, strengthen character, and connect with community resources. She has also organized numerous intervention programs, college and career readiness workshops, leadership events, and family engagement activities designed to support the academic and personal growth of every student.

Before joining CG Bethel High School, Mrs. McDuffie served as an English and Reading teacher, Lead Teacher, and instructional leader in both public and private school settings. In recognition of her outstanding instructional leadership, she was honored as Teacher of the Year at Corpus Christi Catholic School in 2008. 

Mrs. McDuffie holds a Post-Master’s Certification in Guidance Counseling from St. Thomas University, a Master of Science in Exceptional Student Education from Nova Southeastern University, and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. She holds a Florida Professional Educator’s Certificate in Guidance and Counseling (PK–12), Exceptional Student Education (K–12), and Middle School English (5–9). 

As Principal, Mrs. McDuffie is dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence where students, educators, families, and community partners work together to inspire achievement, develop future leaders, and ensure every student reaches their fullest potential. She believes that strong relationships, high expectations, and a commitment to continuous growth are the foundation of a thriving school community.