(Gary, IND)—DeJuan Eskew, Assistant Principal and basketball coach at Daniel Hale Elementary has proven to be a dynamic force in Gary. He reached an impressive milestone by securing back-to-back championships with two elementary school teams in the Gary Community School Corporation. Celebrated for his achievements in education and sports, Eskew exemplifies resilience, mentorship, and excellence, establishing himself as a genuine leader in his community.
Eskew’s connections to Gary run deep. He attended Gary public schools, starting at Duncan Elementary, continuing to Beckman Middle School, and graduated from Roosevelt High School. However, his love for education and leadership developed early. “I always knew I wanted to be a teacher,” Eskew reflected, citing the impact of his mentor, Dr. Vernon G. Smith, a well-respected community leader. “He challenged me, but he also nurtured skills that I now pass on to my students,” Eskew noted.
After earning his degree from IU Northwest, Eskew began his career teaching for five years. Yet, his vision for a more significant impact drove him to take on the role of Dean at Glen Park Academy. For Eskew, this position was an opportunity to support teachers and implement practices that directly benefited students. Five years later, in 2024, he saw another opportunity for growth and applied to become Assistant Principal at Daniel Hale Williams Elementary School.
Eskew’s remarkable ability to blend his passion for education with his love for basketball sets Eskew apart. Coaching has always been a part of his life. Still, his recent achievements as a championship coach for Williams Elementary this year and Glen Park Academy in 2024 reveal the deeper layers of his leadership.
While coaching at Glen Park Academy, Eskew had a group of driven and talented athletes who made winning come naturally. However, at Williams Elementary, his first season as coach presented new challenges.
“This team needed intrinsic motivation. Their confidence wasn’t where it should be,” he explained. “The need was more than skill-based; it was about character building.”
Eskew took a unique approach, using basketball to teach life lessons, foster resilience, and build self-belief.
His dual role as Assistant Principal played a pivotal part in this transformation. With access to data on students’ academic progress, Eskew could understand his players holistically—identifying areas where they needed growth both on and off the court.
His motto, “Play hard and play to win,” reflected his coaching style and his expectations for academics and personal development. “Students need to know they can succeed on the court and in the classroom,” Eskew emphasized.
An important aspect of his role at Williams Elementary has been the adaptation to having a male administrator, which is uncommon in the lives of many students.
“In our community, not all households include a male figure,” Eskew stated.
His guidance has cultivated a fresh sense of respect and motivation, creating a lasting positive effect on both staff and students. Eskew’s ability to build strong relationships has been central to his success, both as a coach and an administrator.
“Coming from Glen Park, I learned that everybody has a vital position,” he said. “Whether it’s in the classroom, on the court, or in life, relationships and teamwork are foundational.”
Under Eskew’s guidance, the basketball team at Williams Elementary went from underdogs to champions. But the win isn’t just about the trophy—it’s about the mindset.
“The team took on the personality of their coach—a winning attitude,” Eskew said with pride.
He saw his players grow physically, mentally, and emotionally throughout the season, embodying the values he works to instill every day.
DeJuan Eskew’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and profound impact. From his early days as a graduate of Gary schools to his transformation of students’ lives at Williams Elementary, he continues to be a beacon of hope and possibility for the community.
During Black History Month, his achievements are a reminder that leadership is not just about titles—it’s about building a legacy. For Eskew, that legacy is one of empowered students, inspired athletes, and a stronger, more unified community.
The Gary Community School Corporation is now enrolling students. To enroll your child and for the latest district news, please visit garyschools.org.
