The first principal of Johnson High School, Brett Miksch, has more than a decade of experience in education and most recently served as a principal in Barber ISD near Houston. Before that, he had many different roles at Sweeny ISD. Miksch is returning to the area, having attended The University of Texas-Austin as an undergraduate before earning a master’s degree from Lamar University in Beaumont.

What have you been doing to prepare for the opening of Johnson High School?

I’ve spent a lot of time becoming familiar with the community, administrative staff, board members and students to learn what their expectations for Johnson High School were. Then, I went to work to staff a campus that shared my vision for our new high school, and [I] feel we have a great one! Also, I’ve worked with [Superintendent] Dr. [Eric] Wright and staff to ensure we had all the supplies and equipment necessary to begin our new school.

How has your previous experience prepared you?

Having the experience of being a principal, assistant principal, director of human resources, athletic director and teacher/coach, I have been fortunate to gain a wealth of knowledge that prepared me for the principalship at Johnson. I have been able to work on numerous staffing plans, budgeting processes, bond committees and curriculum writing to support student success!

Is there anything particularly exciting about being the first-ever principal of a school?

Myself, as well as the staff, are really excited and feel fortunate to open the new high school in Hays CISD. As the first principal, I am excited to establish/develop the culture of the campus, along with the traditions. To me, culture is the driving force of a successful school.

How can you help fold a new school into the traditions of a longstanding district like Hays CISD?

My plan for Johnson High School, as the new school in Hays CISD, is to make it a very positive addition to the rich traditions of the district. We will provide an outstanding academic program as well as a world-class career and technology program with excellent extracurricular programs in the arts and athletics.

What specific ideas or programs do you see yourself bringing to Johnson?

The idea that school is the place to be and that Johnson High School is the school to be at! We are bringing in a character-development program here at Johnson and will continue to build resiliency in our students and staff. [That’s] something I am very passionate about, because I think that will give our students  the competitive advantage for the rest of their lives.

Have you and Hays CISD staff been putting safety precautions into place?

Our staff has met with all local agencies to ensure that our students’ and staff’s safety are at the forefront in what we focus on daily. We are very blessed in this district to have fantastic [school resource officers] as well as our director of safety and security, Jeri Skrocki, that help to keep us prepared for emergencies and that our facilities are always safe and secure.

What would you like parents to know about you?

I am a positive, upbeat person who wants the best for each and every student and staff member. I am also a true believer in the need for resiliency in our students and staff. I expect everyone to be the best version of themselves each and every day!

What words of wisdom do you have for students starting at a brand new school?

I want students to truly be an active part of Johnson High School. This is OUR school, and together, WE will establish the culture and traditions of Johnson. Every student is a valuable and important part of our school, so you need to use your talents to make Johnson the best high school in the nation! Our hashtag is #BIABABY (best in America) … and the standard will start here at JHS!