The Process of Selecting a New Principal at MBHS

MBHS principal Scott Schalde has decided to step down as principal, meaning the school will soon have a new head principal. The announcement has caused both sadness and joy among students, teachers, and parents, and a process has now begun to select a new principal.

Schalde has worked at MBHS for many years, first as a teacher and later as principal. He mentioned that the decision to step down has not been easy.

“I love it here, and it’s just time for me to do something different,” Schalde said, explaining that he has mixed feelings because he really loves the school, but at the same time feels that it’s the right time to move on. “It’s been the best part of my educational career,” Schalde said.

When a principal chooses to step down, it’s the school district’s responsibility to find a new one. According to Schalde, the position was advertised on several websites, including LinkedIn and EdJoin, a site for teachers and school administrators. The position has been open for over a month, and many people have had the opportunity to apply.

More interviews will now be conducted, and ultimately, the superintendent of the school district will decide on who gets the job. Schalde believes the new principal will be announced soon. “Probably by Valentine’s Day,” he mentions, but adds that he doesn’t know for sure.

Before a new principal is chosen, the school also holds meetings where teachers, staff, and parents can share their opinions. Blaire Brinkman, a parent and a teacher at the school, adds that these meetings gave people a chance to say what they want in a new principal.

Brinkman is very grateful for the work Schalde has done. “We all know that Mr. Schalde loves Morro Bay,” said Brinkman. She believes he really cares about his students, and he’s given them a safe place.

The school’s leadership also has strong feelings about Schalde leaving. Asst. Principal Benjamin Davis also agrees that he was very sad to hear the news. “I was devastated,” Davis said. He believes Schalde has been a leader who has been open, listening, and concerned with relationships. “Kids will learn, but first they have to feel loved,” said Davis.

Looking back on his time as principal, Schalde brings up that the most important thing for him has been that students feel seen and cared for. “I think most kids feel like there are adults here who really care about them,” Schalde said. Finally, he also offers some advice to students: “Be kind, work hard, get involved.” While it’s sad to see him leave, it’s clear that he has had a big impact on MBHS.