Upland, Ca – John Abbott, assistant principal at Corona High School, has been named principal at Upland High School, and will begin his new duties on November 12.

Abbott, 40, is a former high school math teacher in San Bernardino and has served in administrative capacities in the Colton Joint Unified and Corona-Norco school district. He replaces Pamela Salgado, who was promoted to assistant superintendent for secondary education at the Upland Unified School District (UUSD).

“We’re thrilled to have John join our district team. His experience at the high school level and his commitment to the whole child make him an ideal choice to lead our Upland High team,” said Dr. Nancy Kelly, UUSD superintendent.

Abbott described his new role as a unique opportunity.

“There is such a rich history here – the family ties and the connection to the community. And I’m really excited to work with a staff so committed to the well-being of students academically as well as socially and emotionally,” Abbott said.

Abbott received his bachelor of arts degree in criminal justice from California State University-San Bernardino and his master of arts in educational leadership from Azusa Pacific University.

He has two daughters, 12 and 14.

Upland High School is highly regarded throughout the region for its academic performance, career pathways, athletics and extracurricular programs, and its focus on student health and well-being. Since 2013, the percentage of students completing a rigorous sequence of courses making them eligible to apply to the California State University and University of California systems has increased from 32% to 57% – a level of growth far above the state average.