August 2026 - Introducing GHS New Principal
In April of last year, Dan Barnes, Grossmont’s principal from 2011-2026, accepted a position in the district office as Director of College and Career Readiness. As our 106th school year begins, Doug Martin is the 16th Principal to lead Grossmont. We asked Doug to introduce himself to our readers.
2026-27 GHS Staff (Photo by Carolyn Jungman)
Douglas Martin
Dear East County Neighbors,
It is my honor and privilege to take the helm from Dan Barnes as Principal of Grossmont High School. Having grown up in La Mesa and currently residing in El Cajon, I have truly found my home in the heart of Fletcher Hills at the flagship school of the Grossmont Union High School District.
I started my career in education in 2002, and after 15 wonderful years in the classroom as an English teacher – including two as a Foothiller – I made the transition to administration as an assistant principal at El Cajon Valley High School for the past nine years. As an administrator, I have seen the impact that quality educational leadership can bring to a school, and my goal as principal is to build on the accomplishments of those who went before me.
I started my tenure as principal of Grossmont High School in April of 2026, and I am truly grateful to lead such an amazing group of teachers, staff, and coaches who work diligently to provide world class educational, athletic, and artistic opportunities for our students. The ability for every student to find their niche at Grossmont is truly remarkable. From our competitive sports teams to our spectacular visual and performing arts programs to our Navy Junior ROTC classes, various clubs, and community service organizations, every student who attends our school can find their home away from home on our campus like I have. Academically, our students are making great strides in their English, math, and science scores, and many are earning college credits while in high school by completing one of our dual enrollment courses or passing Advanced Placement exams.
Additionally, my understanding is that Grossmont is the only public high school on the planet to have sent three of our graduates into space. That’s no small feat! And let’s not forget former Foothiller and current Padres pitcher Joe No-No Musgrove! Grossmont graduates go on to accomplish great things in life, and it all starts at our beautiful campus next to the Castle on the Hill – the old Grossmont High School and now the GUHSD District office – off the I-8 freeway.
Thank you for allowing me to introduce myself, and I look forward to seeing you cheering on our students as they represent us in the community. As my predecessors often said, “It’s great to be young and a Foothiller!”
Sincerely,
Doug Martin
Principal, Grossmont High School
To learn about the 15 principals who preceded Doug, visit our history page on our website at foothillermuseum.com.
Visit the GHS Museum by appointment: