Jordan-Elbridge High School welcomes new principal

Former athletic director and assistant principal Mark Schermerhorn has been named the new principal at Jordan-Elbridge High School. He takes over for the retiring David Zehner.

Schermerhorn has been at JE since 2008 when he started as a technology teacher. He earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from SUNY Oswego and a master’s degree in technology education from Ball State. He also studied educational administration at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.

After spending 10 years in the district, Schermerhorn felt it was time to take on a larger leadership role.

“I’ve worked at different levels in the building and have been a part of the school and community for 10 years. I have a lot of positive relationships with students, staff and community members,” he said.

“My experiences from teaching, coaching and being an administrator at JE have taught me many aspects of the school culture and the day-to-day operations of the high school. I felt it was time to make this transition.”

Schermerhorn says he has a clear vision for the position. He said he’s looking to build on an already strong foundation at the high school with its Early College High School program and all of the AP courses it offers.

“I also want to grow the advanced Regents diploma rate, increase our graduation rate and make sure all students achieve to their potential. Our students have so many opportunities here and it’s my job to make sure they all explore and succeed in them,” he said.

Some of his duties at the high school will include supervising and evaluating teachers, overseeing Professional Learning Communities, connecting with parents and community members, dealing with student discipline issues and more.

Schermerhorn calls JE “a second home” and loves the idea of continuing his career in the district. He said when the position opened up, he felt it was a natural fit. With three kids of his own, he wants parents to know he plans to always act in the best interest of the students.  

“I received a lot of support from the people here and I appreciate that,” he said.

“I’m not just a principal, I’m a father. I want parents to know I can identify with them and I’m always here to talk.”