Dr. Carden is a good role model. Students know he cares for them but they also know he doesn't play when things are serious. He's not like a lot of principals. When you mess up and get sent to his office, he takes time to talk with you. He will listen to you and offer useful advice about any problem a student is dealing with.
Dr. Carden is not your ordinary leader. He practices what he calls "tough love." While he may get disappointed in a student or staff member for making bad choices, he will also take the time to discuss the bad choices, the outcomes and consequences of the bad choices, and alternative choices which could have resulted in more positive outcomes for the student. One always knows where he/she stands with Dr. Carden; he is a straightforward, no sugar-coating (good or bad news) kind of guy. He has been heard saying things like, "I'm not easy on them because the real world won't be easy on them," and "If you're right I have your back, but if you're wrong, I have your butt." No matter what you think about Dr. Carden, like him or not, you always know he will do what he feels is in the best interest of the children.