Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School has hired Mr. Yates as its new interim principal for the 2025-2026 school year. Yates brings years of leadership experience, having served as principal at Damascus High School before retiring and later stepping in as acting principal at Blair for a year.
Reflecting on his early impressions of B-CC, Yates praised the strong support already in place at the school. Stating, “The community is unbelievable. The foundation, the PTSA. Being in downtown Bethesda is incredible. Safety, he emphasized, will be his number one priority. “We need to be safe. So that’s a priority,” he explained, noting his goal of making sure every student feels secure while in the building. Beyond safety, he wants to be an active presence in the school. “You’ll see me in classes,” he said. “Hopefully, students have already been like, Wow, that was the principal.’ I’m bringing that excitement and enthusiasm. And you’ll see me in the halls frequently as well as during classes.”
This school year, MCPS enforced a new county-wide phone policy, which Yates strongly supports. He cited academic integrity and focus as his main responsibilities. “Cheating is a concern for students who have their phones with them. So that’s the main reason, it’s a distraction and trying to keep kids focused on learning,” he explained. While the decision came from the county, he had made it clear it would be strongly enforced at school.
Outside of his professional career, Yates enjoys a busy family life. He and his wife have been married for 31 years. His son recently graduated from the University of Maryland, one daughter is a teacher in Montgomery County, and his oldest daughter is currently in medical school. Yates enjoys spending time outdoors, “I’m an avid mountain biker,” he shared.
With his years of leadership experience, a focus on safety, and a desire to be involved in student life, Mr. Yates is stepping into his role at B-CC with energy and purpose. As interim principal, he hopes to build strong connections and make sure every student feels both supported and seen.
