After the promotion of our former principal, Damon Voight, Middle College High School welcomes Scott Werner as the new principal who brings a fresh perspective and a focus on enhancing student success.
As the new principal, Werner brings a fresh perspective and a commitment to building on the school’s successes. He establishes expectations for staff and students while challenging himself in his growth as our new principal too.
Of course, to get this role as a principal, Werner brings a significant amount of experience as an educator, among other qualifications.
“I was an assistant principal at Segerstrom High School for over six years. Before that, I was an assistant principal at Mendez Fundamental Intermediate School for at least nine years,” Werner said, “and then prior to that, I was a math and science teacher at McFadden Intermediate School.”
In addition, he stepped in as a temporary principal during Voight’s medical leave in 2024.
“Two years ago, I was an intern principal while Mr. Voight was out on medical leave for three months,” Werner said, demonstrating that he not only has experience but has already worked with our school.
Werner is taking time to understand our school’s system, accomplishments, and areas for improvement.
“One of the things I got to experience last week was presenting to the California Coalition of Early and Middle colleges. It was a good experience for me because I saw a lot of the data from Middle College for the last year, but also the improvements over the last eight years or so,” Werner said.
Werner emphasized that he doesn’t plan to make any major changes.
“I know a lot of really good things are happening at Middle College, and I don’t want to change that,” Werner said.
Instead, Werner hopes to enhance existing processes and streamline systems where needed. Last year, 94% of seniors graduated with associate’s degrees. Werner states his goal is to bring that number as close to 100% as possible.
Werner also shared his expectations for students and staff.
“I expect the best. Staff and students should give their best effort and their best attitude every single day,” Werner said.
He explained that growth looks different for every student and that his goal is to help students finish high school successfully while being prepared for higher education or careers they enjoy.
Werner wants students to know that he is approachable and understanding.
“I am a human being, and you’re welcome to come and talk to me,” he said. Drawing on his experience as a parent, he added, “I understand navigating high school from both the principal side and the parent side, and I am here to help.” He encourages students to reach out to adults when challenges arise, emphasizing that no problem is too big to solve.
Werner understands that there are many expectations placed on him as a principal.
“I would say that part of the expectation is to make sure that I’m visible and to make sure that I’m out there,” Werner said.
He is expected to be present, and as our new principal, he will be responsible for guiding the school and creating a positive environment for both students and staff.
This is just the beginning of the year, and the future is uncertain. However, the expectations Werner has for the school and what’s expected of him are clear.
“And I’m sure the expectation is not to mess up, but I promise you, there will probably be some things that I don’t do correctly, because I, too, am a human being,” Werner said.
