LAGUNA HILLS – For Principal Ed Adams, life is all about attitude.

"I  think kids have to be positive thinkers…as school leaders that is our  goal, to transfer this belief," he said. "That can create a school  climate of enthusiasts, of spirit."

Adams preached that mantra  throughout his four years as principal of Laguna Hills High School. And  now as the school year closes, he has decided that it's time to retire.

"You live in a work calendar all your life," he said. "There are things in life you want to do, you always look down the road."

Adams  has worked for the Saddleback Valley Unified School District for 30  years. He's spent 13 of those at Laguna Hills High School, where he  also served as head football coach and as assistant principal of  supervision, business facilities, athletics and curriculum. He was also  a football coach at Mission Viejo High School and a school  administrator at El Toro High School.

Adams is proud of  several milestones and achievements during his time at Laguna Hills  High. Topping the list is academic excellence.

As evidence,  Adams points to high International Baccalaureate and AP test scores and  academic achievement among all students. He also plusses his teachers,  some of whom have been recognized at the state and county levels.

"I really believe of giving credit where credit is due," Adams said.

The  athletics department has also been successful during Adams' tenure,  becoming league champions in football, wrestling, cross country, girls  and boys basketball, track and field, and softball and baseball.

Important  milestones for Adams include Measure B modernization, which brought: a  sports stadium, an auxiliary gym, a science wing, new athletic training  facilities and a performing arts complex. Adams said Measure B  improvements should be finished in the fall.

In his 13-year stint at Laguna Hills High, Adams said that he's seen a change in the school's demographics.

"We are fortunate to have a mix of cultures," he said. "It's a lot different than when the school opened up in '78."

"We all accept each other," he added. "We always work to create harmony and cohesiveness on the campus."

As graduation approaches, Adams has one piece of advice for his students – get involved.

"When high school is over, they can look back at it," he said.

Retirement  will bring a new lifestyle for Adams, who usually spends his Friday  nights at a school function or sporting event. He looks forward to  traveling with his wife and playing a little golf. Adams will retire at  the end of June.

But he says he'll always find time to come back.

"I'm going to be on some sidelines somewhere," he said.