Empower Generations High School Staff Spotlight on Mr. D

08.26.2025

Empower Generations High School Staff Spotlight on Mr. D

Meet David Borkes, or as we at Empower Generations High School know him, Mr. D. With a background in customer experience management, Mr. D has a passion for fostering strong communities and helping people shine. He first discovered the supportive, family-like atmosphere of the iLEAD network of schools, of which EGHS is a part, when his children enrolled at an iLEAD school in 2022, and he was so impressed that he decided to find a way to contribute his own skills. Now, as our Community Outreach Coordinator, Mr. D is at the forefront of connecting our learners with opportunities from businesses and organizations in our amazingly supportive Antelope Valley community.

Please tell us about your background and how you came to be at Empower Generations.

My background is customer experience management, where I have successfully overseen operations in various areas including call center management, social media engagement, marketing strategies, and training initiatives. My children began their journey at iLEAD in 2022, and during that time, I had the pleasure of being part of the iSUPPORT committee. I was truly impressed with the warm, family-like atmosphere at the school, which sparked my curiosity about how to become more involved. I began keeping an eye on the job postings on iLEAD’s website, and I was thrilled to discover a position that matched my interests and qualifications. Without hesitation, I submitted my application, and now I personally get to contribute to give back to this community.

What is your role at Empower Generations High School? What’s the best part about it? What’s the biggest challenge?

My role is community outreach. It continues to evolve daily, but the core of my work is focused on connecting with community-based organizations. We have made great strides with several community partners who are generously providing workshops on essential topics, such as mental health, drug awareness, life skills, and various career paths for our high schoolers. Additionally, I’ve been actively participating in boothing events to increase awareness about our school and the programs we offer. It’s been a fantastic way to engage with the community and highlight the resources available to our high schoolers.

Staff Youth-Chella Boothing 11.22.2024 Empower Generations

What do you LOVE about Empower Generations? What sets it apart from other schools?

I love the family-like atmosphere of our school—it’s a supportive and welcoming community where everyone feels connected.

Are you involved in other activities at Empower Generations High School?

I am currently leading our Sports Committee, Yearbook Committee, and Senior Planning Committee. In these roles, I help organize athletic events, oversee the creation of the yearbook, and coordinate memorable activities and celebrations for our senior class. It’s a rewarding experience that allows me to contribute to school spirit and help bring our community together.

In your opinion, what makes a great leader?

To me, a great leader isn’t just someone with a title—it’s someone who genuinely cares, lifts others up, and helps people become the best version of themselves.

What does a day in your school life look like?

I’m always looking to build connections with community partners, engage with learners, and organize meaningful workshops and events that bring people together and support growth.

Please name four interesting facts about you. Extra credit for lots of details.

I love music—it’s a big part of my life. Whether I’m listening to my favorite songs, discovering new artists, or going to live concerts, music always lifts my mood.
I also enjoy traveling and exploring new places, cultures, and food.
Swimming is one of my favorite ways to relax and stay active.
Most of all, I value the time I get to spend with my friends and family—whether we’re out on an adventure or just hanging out, those moments mean the most to me.

With his passion for building community, it’s no surprise that Mr. D is at the center of so many activities at Empower Generations High School. Mr. D is constantly seeking new ways to connect learners with valuable resources and experiences, and his efforts make Empower Generations High School feel like a family.

About Empower Generations High School:

Empower Generations High School (EGHS) is a free public high school in Lancaster, CA. Founded in 2016, EGHS offers a flexible independent study model alongside robust college and career planning support and Career Technical Education opportunities, ensuring each student is equipped for their chosen future. Our commitment extends to providing credit recovery options and valuable resources, such as our Parenting Teens Program. At EGHS, students thrive under the guidance of our caring, credentialed educators. Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook and find us at www.empowergenerations.org.

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