As Doug Mattson prepares to retire, he is looking back on a career filled with growth, challenges, and meaningful connections with students and staff. 

Mattson, who currently serves as a associate principal, says his path into administration wasn’t something he originally planned. Instead, it was the encouragement of others that pushed him in that direction. 

“I was very fortunate to have good administrators that were very supportive,” he said. “They told me I would be a good administrator, so I looked into it, and I’ve enjoyed it ever since.” 

Over the years, his responsibilities have grown and changed significantly. He started as an assistant principal, focusing on day-to-day student needs like schedules, discipline, and recommendation letters. Eventually, he moved into an associate principal role, where he worked more with staff, facilities, and teacher evaluations. Now, as an associate principal, he says he serves as “kind of the PR face of the building,” handling budgets, hiring, and overall leadership. 

Even with those changes, one thing has stayed the same for him. The importance of relationships. 

“The thing that makes me the most proud is just helping people,” he said. 

 He described graduation as one of the most meaningful moments of his career. After working with students through challenges, seeing them successfully cross the stage is something he never gets tired of.  

“When you see some of those tough kids walk across the stage and smile and get their diploma—that means a lot,” he said. 

Although his career has been rewarding, it hasn’t been without challenges. One of the biggest obstacles, he said, was simply getting into administration in the first place, since many people compete for those positions. Once in the role, he faced a steep learning curve. 

 “There’s no real training that can prepare you for the day-to-day stuff,” he said. 

To overcome those challenges, Mr. Mattson relied on mentors and wasn’t afraid to ask for help.  

“I could pick up the phone and call dozens of principals.”  

Even after years in the field, he believes learning never stops.  

“I learn every day—whether it’s from kids, teachers, or other administrators,” he said. 

As he looks ahead to retirement, Mattson says the hardest part will be leaving a job he truly loves.  

“I enjoy what I’m doing.” he said, “I love seeing the kids walk in the building every day.” Over time, he’s watched students grow more comfortable, even being the first to greet him in the mornings. 

For future administrators—or anyone going into education—his advice is simple. Enjoy the job and focus on people. 

 “Make it fun. Do something every day to make it memorable,” he said. “Just take care of people, and the rest will take care of itself.”