LA MIRADA >> About a month into the school year, the word is out on the past exploits of Benton Middle School Principal Michael Gotto.

Most students are now aware that Gotto, 30, once donned one of the most iconic superhero costumes in recent television history.

Gotto once portrayed one of the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers,the “young Tommy,” who was the white-uniformed one.

He was cast in the role at age 11, when his father was a martial arts trainer for the “adult Tommy.”

Producers asked the elder Gotto to bring in his son to audition, since he was experienced in martial arts.

“It was an advantage, since the role was so physical,” Gotto admitted.

His acting experience while attending middle school, gives Gotto an other-level connection to his students, especially those pursuing their passions in the visual and performing arts arena.

But more importantly, Gotto, who left Hollywood behind to pursue a career in academia, knows what students are facing as they prepare for college.

“I can tell them about the audition and rehearsal processes, as well the actual filming,” he said. “And, I can also tell them they cannot forgo their education to pursue the arts. They can do both.”

Gotto is the first in his family to have gone to college, having been inspired by his teachers and counselors while growing up in Glendora.

“Neither of my parents graduated from high school,” Gotto explained. “There were specific teachers and counselors, especially in high school, who made an enormous impact on me, and guided me through my educational journey.”

He attended Charter Oak High School in Covina.

So, turning his back on the bright lights of Hollywood, Gotto earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Pepperdine University and a master’s degree from Claremont Graduate University.

While at Claremont, he earned a single-subject teaching credential in English.

Gotto started his career teaching high school English and quickly advanced to dean of students in 2011 and then assistant principal at John Glenn High School. He also spent a year teaching English in Hong Kong.

“Michael has a background as school administrator, teacher and performer,” said Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Ruth Perez. “He is the perfect choice to work at Benton, as he will bring all those skills to the table, as well as act as a wonderful role model to the students.”

For Gotto, he really sees the possibility for students to expand at Benton since it has a strong visual and performing arts academy.

“Performing is my passion, and so is education,” said Gotto, who has performed at The Roxy and Whiskey-A-Go-Go as a guitarist in a band. “I really get to see my two worlds emerging into one at Benton.”