Mr. Gubitz is a lifelong educator who infuses his love of music into his work with young people. Since 2011, he has served as principal of ReNEW Cultural Arts Academy in New Orleans, leading the Pre-K through 4th grade academy.  Under his leadership, the school has undergone a dramatic turnaround from what was once the lowest-performing school in the entire state of Louisiana. A graduate of Indiana University, Ron found his way to New Orleans after working in education in St. Louis. He taught high school English, founded an AP program, and the first high school chapter of Hip Hop Congress, which uses hip hop as an educational medium to promote youth voice and expression. He then recruited and coached hundreds of teachers across the St. Louis region.

After serving as Principal at ReNEW Cultural Arts Academy – one of the original 8 pilot schools selected for the Turnaround Arts program – for 5 years, Mr. Gubitz will be taking the role of Principal Coach with Turnaround Arts for the upcoming school year. He has spoken extensively at various education conferences and events, including the 2014 White House Turnaround Arts Talent Show, hosted by First Lady Michelle Obama.