Damon Wright, who became Benicia High School’s principal at the start of the 2012-13 school year, is resigning to become the principal of American Canyon High School.

In an email sent Friday, Wright said, “It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of my plans to formally resign as principal of Benicia High School.” His last day is June 30.

“The past three years have been amazing,” he continued. “I want to thank the school community for welcoming me into your lives and supporting me through this journey.”

Wright has described his journey into his career in education as “an interesting story.”

Born into a military family in Virginia, he lived in Japan for about five years, then attended school in San Diego from third grade until high school.

He was at home in San Diego, working as a restaurant host during a break between his junior college in Bakersfield and transferring to Sacramento State when his boss’s wife pointed him toward education as a profession.

Once he had a degree, the woman hired him in the guidance department. “That got me started in education,” he said.

Even when he accepted a job as a probation officer, he remained a guidance assistant, “keeping one foot in the door in education.” But being a probation officer helped him in the area of professional development.

As a shift leader, he also handled youth who had gotten into fights in juvenile hall.

After moving to Northern California, he was a school psychologist at California High School, San Ramon. During that time, he earned his administration credential from Sacramento State, and became California High School’s assistant principal for three years.

While he was busy creating an academic enrichment programs and improving the school’s engineering academy and the Student Success Team, he learned Benicia Unified School District was seeking a new Benicia High School principal.
He applied, hoping he could motivate students to take advantage of the opportunities the school offers.

Wright said one reason he was lured away is because he lives in American Canyon, which also spurred him to seek the Benicia job.

“This opportunity will enable me to serve and lead the community in which I reside,” he said. “I will also be able to monitor my daughters as they are scheduled to attend middle school next year!”

In his email, Wright wrote, “I want to thank you for an amazing experience. and wish all of you peace and happiness.”
As for leaving the high school behind, Wright wrote, “I am confident that BHS will continue to thrive and reach their goals.”

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