PORT ORCHARD — Former South Kitsap High School teacher and coach Dave Goodwin is returning to the school as its new principal.

Goodwin’s selection as South Kitsap’s principal was announced May 31 by the South Kitsap School District’s new superintendent, Tim Winter, in a news release. Goodwin replaces Diane Fox, who resigned in April. He will begin his assignment on July 1.

Goodwin has 24 years in the educational field, including experience as a high school administrator and principal at Peninsula High School. He was named to that position in 2014. But the new school administrator also taught in the Social Studies Department at South Kitsap and coached at the school for more than 12 years before taking the administrative post at Peninsula.

Goodwin has a bachelor’s degree from Washington State University and earned a Master of Arts degree from Heritage College in Toppenish, Washington.

“I am really excited to work with the students and staff at South Kitsap High School, as well as with the leadership at the district office,” Goodwin said of his appointment.

“South Kitsap has a dedicated and committed staff with a lot of heart and some truly unique programs to offer students. All the ingredients are there, and I truly believe that great things are on the horizon for South Kitsap High School. I am proud to have the opportunity to be part of it.”

Winter said that Goodwin was the clear choice from among the candidates considered for the high school post.

“The selection process was very thorough and included a student panel and large group interview with South Kitsap High School staff, school and district-level administrators. The applicants were well-qualified, and I would like to thank all involved in the interview process,” Winter said in the release.

“He has the skills and educational experience needed to lead South Kitsap High School to [be] one of the top schools in the state. He is committed to building relationships and firmly believes that a healthy school climate and culture are the foundation of all great schools.”