Grants Pass High School Names New Principal
Longtime district educator Jason Garcia will lead GPHS beginning July 1.
Jason Garcia has been named the next principal of Grants Pass High School and will begin the role on July 1, 2026. (Photo courtesy of Grants Pass School District)
GRANTS PASS, Ore. — Grants Pass School District 7 has announced that longtime educator Jason Garcia will serve as the next principal of Grants Pass High School.
Garcia has worked in the district since 2000, beginning his career as a music teacher after earning a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Oregon. During his teaching career, he worked at Lincoln Elementary School, Highland Elementary School, North Middle School, and Grants Pass High School.
While directing the high school band program, Garcia led students to multiple championships and two appearances in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Garcia later earned a master’s degree in 2011 and completed his administrative licensure program at Southern Oregon University. He has since served in several leadership roles within the district, including Dean of Students at Grants Pass High School and assistant principal positions at both South Middle School and Grants Pass High School.
He currently serves as assistant principal at Grants Pass High School, overseeing counseling and student services.
Garcia said he is honored to continue supporting the Grants Pass community in his new role.
“My philosophy is rooted in the belief that we must love first and teach second,” Garcia said. “I believe deeply in the value of education and look forward to working with our dedicated staff to help every student find their path.”
Grants Pass School District Superintendent Tim Sweeney said Garcia has played an important role in recent efforts to support students and improve graduation outcomes.
“Jason is approachable and deeply committed to our students,” Sweeney said. “He has a clear vision for the future of GPHS, and we’re excited for the leadership and energy he will bring to the school.”
Garcia will begin serving as principal on July 1, 2026.
He succeeds current principal Michele Napier, who has led Grants Pass High School since 2023. Napier will transition into a new role as the district’s Director of Secondary Education, also beginning July 1.
District officials said the nationwide search for the next principal included input from staff, students, families, and community members who participated in the interview process.
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