Hello,
Welcome to Austin High School. My name is Demond Garth. I am the school's principal.
I am excited about a new school year and look forward to meeting the parents and students. We are very proud of our rich traditions and of the educational accomplishments of our students, faculty, and community. I am grateful for the opportunity to get to know your family in the new school year.
What do you love about your job?
I love the students and staff. We have some of the best students at Austin High. It's my job and the admin teams job to make sure our staff has everything they need to be successful. I am visible at all the sporting events, in the halls, and classrooms. It's about being there for my students. By me being the face of Austin High School, I know I have to bring it everyday no matter how stressed I am. This is a great school, great environment, and that's what I hope to continue.
What personality traits do you contribute to your success?
I have a calm demeanor. I learned from my dad about how to treat people well. He taught me to treat people with respect and to be nice.
What is one thing most people don't know about you?
When I'm not watching sports (Auburn football or the Braves) my television is mainly set on HGTV. I like travel shows and home improvement.
What best advice motivated you to become an educator/principal?
My freshman basketball coach pushed me. Coach Allen said he saw something in me. He dug in deep and challenged me. He pushed me to be better. I learned from Coach Allen to treat people fairly but you've also got to hold them accountable. Holding people accountable isn't always easy but you got to be the same all the time.
What is one character trait you hope to instill in your students, and why?
Work ethic. Not everything is going to be given to you in this life. You need to work for and toward something. We see so much potential in our kids that they don't see in themselves. We want them to believe they can do it. They are going to be the next bosses, the next doctors, the next lawyers. It's our job to prepare them for a successful future.
What would it have been if you could have chosen a job outside of education?
Organizing people's houses. Organization is my thing. I think it would be a cool job!