As Mark Jones begins his new career as an administrator at Bridgeport High School, it won’t be the first time he’s spent time in an educational setting with Matt DeMotto. It will be, however, the first time, they’ve worked as peers.

 

“I know Mr. DeMotto from many years ago,” said Jones. “He was my seventh grade science teacher at Washington Irving Middle School so I guess you can say we go back a bit.”

 

While Jones was in full learning capacity under DeMotto at that time, he admits they’ll be some learning to do under DeMotto in his new gig. After being formally approved by the Harrison County Board of Education Tuesday as the new assistant principal and athletic director for BHS, Jones will have the steady hand of DeMotto to turn to as he begins to learn the ropes in his first administrative position.

 

“One of the great things about this new position is being able to work with him in his role as a former athletic director, which should make that transition easier because if I have questions or concerns he’s right there to steer me in the right direction,” said Jones. “I’m sure I’ll turn to him for assistance in both roles, which considering his experience is a benefit.”

 

Jones is a 2002 graduate of Notre Dame High School and a 2007 graduate of Alderson-Broaddus College where he majored in secondary education with a specialization in mathematics and also played baseball. Eventually, in 2013, he received his Master’s Degree in Educational leadership.

 

“The goal was eventually to get into administration,” said Jones.

 

Before getting to where he is today, Jones has spent nine years in the education business. His first six years were spent at South Harrison and the last three were at Robert C. Byrd High School teaching math. He also served as the Eagles baseball coach.

 

“I am so very thankful for the relationships I was able to build at both schools,” said Jones. “I’ve met great people in both communities and worked with great people and administrators at both schools.”

 

Although Jones’ goal was to be an administrator, he said the timing – and the position – were right for him.

 

“This was an opportunity I couldn’t look past. A school such as Bridgeport High School doesn’t have administrative positions come open often and I figured if I didn’t jump now then the opportunity is going to be lost,” said Jones. “It’s an ideal situation to work for a school with such a high level of community involvement and one with a rich history.

 

“One thing educators will tell you and I certainly can tell you is that if you have success in the classroom, extracurricular activities from band and the arts to athletics is that you have community backing,” he continued. “When you find success, that’s the common area most can point to.”

 

Jones is also a successful family man. He and his wife Brianna are the parents to a son, Luke. They live in Clarksburg.

 

“I’m very excited to get started. I guess you could say I’m anxious, nervous as well as being happy and elated. Basically, it’s just about every emotion you can think of all rolled together,” he said.

 

Jones is filling the open spot left by DeMotto assuming the principal position when Mark DeFazio retired. Jones will also join Assistant Principal Renee’ Mathews, who took over for Mary Frances Smith, who also retired last year.

 

Editor's Note: Top photo (courtesy of Mark Jones and taken by Nate Wright) shows Mark Jones with his wife Brianna and son Luke. Second photo shows Jones coaching the RCB baseball team in a game last year at Bridgeport High School. Bottom photo by www.benqueenphotography.com.