A third-generation educator, education is all that Daniel Dias ever knew. 

Growing up in Marion, he said he was surrounded by teachers and not only from his own family — birthdays and dinner parties always involved teachers and coaches from throughout the community. 

Therefore, when it came time for college, there was one clear answer on what he should pursue, but the question remained where he’d find his niche. 

Starting out in guidance counseling at Bishop Stang High School in 2013, he now finds himself as the school’s next principal. 

Though he was initially only interested in gaining some experience, he said, “I liked the people so much. I liked the Catholic school environment. I love the students and families and I just never left.”

He added, “I feel like I learned a lot and I think they might have saw something in me.”

During his time at Bishop Stang, Dias also coached multiple sports teams, including football, baseball, basketball and lacrosse as well as taught. As opportunities presented themselves, especially those in leadership, Dias continued to take them on — even serving as the school’s Director of Student Services for a time.

He said then he decided he wanted to pursue a career in administration. After completing a certificate of advanced graduate studies, Dias applied and was chosen as the school’s assistant principal in 2021.

“It was kind of still mid Covid fallout,” Dias added. “So it was kind of like being thrown into the deep end.”

However, it also allowed him to learn a lot, especially with the support of his mentors. 

Over the last two years, Dias has been a part of the Catholic leadership cohort at Boston College — “that was just a tremendous experience.”

He said, “The principalship is such a dynamic role,” highlighting different aspects, including instructional leadership, data review and strategic planning.

While he feels that there is a lot of “goodness” at Bishop Stang, the world is changing is so is education and the needs of students. 

“It’s really important to me to work with my colleagues, students and families and really be a visionary about the programs and services we can offer that can meet the needs and desires of students right now,” Dias said.

One of his biggest priorities as principal is to deepen the school’s connection to the Dartmouth community, he said.

He said the students could tap into the “rich culture in the area” and could have “opportunities to tackle community challenges.”

In regard to the new role, Dias said, ‘It’s a pretty big undertaking,” but he feels supported. 

Had he not had so many prior opportunities and mentors, he said he may have been “a lot more nervous.” but he feels confident in moving forward in this new job.

“I get up each morning and I feel really good about coming to Bishop Stang,” Dias said. “So I really look forward to the future and value the opportunity — the relationships. I think we have a bright future, and I consider myself very fortunate and lucky to be part of such an outstanding team and school.”