Dr. Scott Pickle was born and raised in Atwater, California. He attended Atwater public schools and graduated from Atwater High School.  While growing up, his parents kept him active in a number of extracurricular activities and working on the family ranch.  After graduating from high school, he attended California State University, Fresno, receiving his Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education with emphasis of Exercise Physiology while competing on the Track and Field team. Next he attended National University, Fresno Campus, to earn his Single Subject Teaching Credential, and then cleared his credential at University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA).  Continuing his education, he earned a Master’s Degree and Administrative Services Credential from National University.  Finally, he earned his Doctorate of Education with an emphasis on K12 Leadership from Grand Canyon University.

He began his public education career as a teacher in Middle School before moving to Central High School in Fresno where he taught Science for 9 years, served as the Science Department Chair, as well as, being Head Coach of the Central Cross Country and Track and Field programs. His administrative path began at Sierra High School in Sierra Unified as Assistant Principal/Athletic Director. Next he moved to Tulare Western as Assistant Principal before being hired as Principal of Hanford High where he remained for 10 years before arriving as Selma High Principal. 

Dr. Pickle has been honored with several accolades. He has twice been awarded the Paramount Agribusiness Teacher of the Year, first in 2003 and again in 2006.  In 2004, he was awarded the California State Assembly Teacher of the Year for District 31 (Fresno County) and the Fresno County Board of Supervisors, Teacher of the Year, Certificate of Recognition award.  Additionally, in 2003 he was honored by the University of California as an Outstanding Teacher.  As an administrator, in 2014, he was recognized by the Parent Institute for Quality Education (PIQE) as an outstanding administrator and won the Administrator of the Year (California FFA Section Star award).  Also in 2014, he was recognized by the US House of Representatives Certificate of Achievement as FFA Star Administrator.  Then in 2016, Dr. Pickle received a California Assembly Recognition Award for quality extra-curricular programs.

Dr. Pickle, as a published author, has peer reviewed work on “The Culture of High Expectations and Academic Achievement in California Public High Schools”. He also wrote a book titled “Upright” about overcoming a serious struggle with COVID-19.  He currently keeps a blog called “Pickle Bytes” which chronicles his weekly updates to his staff.

Dr. Pickle’s wife Erin, who is also a public school educator, helps make the topic of education the most talked about in the household.  He has five children; JD, Abby, Aidan, Rory, and Jake.  Together they share their commitment and dedication to family activities and the many adventures their children present.  An avid guitar player, chess enthusiast, and amateur cyclist, Dr. Pickle shares with his family his love of sports, outdoor activities, reading, and music.