Nearly four years ago, we were so focused on starting our high school lives that we didn’t even notice the ball rolling in.
Demetrius Ball, our famed principal, started his Cal High journey with us, navigating an entirely new playing field as he transitioned from the principal of Iron Horse Middle School to Cal in the 2022-2023 school year.
But instead of a new backpack and glossy eyes like most Cal newcomers, he had a radio and a pair of smooth shades.
Ball was inspired to become a principal through his passion to be a community leader and his high school mentor, who was his principal.
“I’ve always thought it would be really cool to be literally a part of this community,” Ball said. “When this position became open, I was like oh, this is where I need to be.”
Ball’s first day at Cal was a blur as he navigated the chaotic environment, spending most of his time helping freshmen get to their classes.
“It was a lot you know, lots of movement going all over the place and just making sure everybody was where they were supposed to be,” Ball said.
Even though his first year was a brand new experience, he already knew some of the Grizzlies from Iron Horse.
“I did have that comfort level because we were all coming from Iron Horse, so that was a pretty comforting thing,” Ball said.
Senior Hailey Yi was happy to see a familiar face as she transitioned from Iron Horse Middle School to Cal.
“Honestly [Ball] has been one of the best principals I’ve ever had,” Yi said. “I was actually pretty happy to see that he was moving with me.”
Despite Ball’s peachy start to the year, he knew he had a tall task in front of him as freshman year was only the second year out of COVID. His goal for that year was to respect the culture Cal already had while navigating the difficult process of reigning in some of the issues he saw.
“We had a different culture on campus and bringing my style and my personality was different from how things were,” Ball said. “It [freshman year] was all about safety because all sorts of things were going.”
While freshman year was all about change, Ball describes sophomore year as a time of rebuilding. A major milestone during sophomore year was the beginning of the home bleacher replacement.
“[Building the bleachers] was another big thing,” Ball said. “The bleachers turned out really nicely, they got done on time for the next school year and everything.”
Additionally, during this year, the school tried to implement attendance scanners. But after much push back from staff and students, the scanners were dumped.
For Ball, junior and senior years were less about change and more about embracing everything the school has to offer.
“I think [Ball] has done a good job of putting regulations on leaving during lunch,” Yi said.
Through Ball’s four years at Cal, he’s witnessed the school improve in front of his eyes.
“We’ve gotten to a place where we figured out what we need and what [students need],” Ball said. “As a principal, I see a path forward, and I feel comfortable.”
Math teacher Namita Vakil said she sees Ball as a very supportive leader.
“He’s always assured the teachers that admin has their backs,” Vakil said. “I’ve never seen [Ball] get agitated, and he handles issues very effectively.”
Senior Tony Jimenez is very appreciative of Ball’s guidance throughout his high school journey.
“I’m very grateful because [Ball] helped me learn and grow not only as a student but also as a person,” Jimenez said.
Ball’s advice for graduating seniors is to always keep an open mind and be prepared to adapt when challenges arise in the future.
Even though his first four years flew by, Ball holds the Class of 26 in high regard and gives us the esteemed honor of being his favorite.
“[Class of 2026] will always have a special place in my heart,” Ball said.
