Bearcats Welcome New Leadership: Dr. McDaris Named Principal of Hendersonville High School

Following the pending retirement of longtime educator and administrator Laura Bruegger, Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) is pleased to announce Dr. John McDaris as the new principal of Hendersonville High School, effective March 2.

Ms. Bruegger, who has dedicated her career to serving Henderson County students and families, leaves a lasting legacy of leadership, compassion, and commitment to excellence.

Dr. McDaris brings extensive leadership experience and a strong record of student-centered school improvement to Hendersonville High School. Most recently, Dr. McDaris serves as principal of Rugby Middle School, where Dr. McDaris was named the 2023-24 Henderson County Public Schools Principal of the Year.

“Dr. McDaris is the kind of leader every school community hopes for,” said Superintendent Mark R. Garrett. “He leads with integrity, purpose, and a deep belief in the potential of every student. The Hendersonville High School Bearcat family is gaining a principal who will honor the school’s proud traditions while continuing to move it forward in meaningful ways.”

Dr. McDaris joined Henderson County Public Schools in 2014 as an assistant principal at North Henderson High School after four years as a social studies teacher in Transylvania County. Dr. McDaris later served as assistant principal and athletic director at West Henderson High School before becoming principal of Rugby Middle School in 2021, where Dr. McDaris’s leadership helped strengthen school culture, academic growth, and staff collaboration.

“I consider it an honor to have this opportunity to serve the students, staff, and community at Hendersonville High School,” said Dr. McDaris. “The Bearcats have an incredibly rich history and tradition that serves as a source of great pride in our county and beyond. I am looking forward to contributing to the legacy of exceptional outcomes that all Bearcats expect.”

Dr. McDaris holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences Education and Political Science, a Master’s degree in School Administration, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Western Carolina University.

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