POULSBO — When David Andersen hands a diploma to his graduating daughter during graduation this year, it will be one of his final acts as North Kitsap High School principal.

Andersen has announced that he will resign his position at the end of the school year.

Andersen, who has been principal at NKHS since 1989 and who was vice-principal for seven years before that, drew on a sports analogy when he discussed his departure.

“It’s time for a new quarterback,” he said. “I’ve been one for 21 years.”

He plans to pursue a position somewhere else, perhaps in a new district, Andersen said.

“I’ve been lucky to be in one place for so long. I need to use my talents in another district,” he said. “This is a good, positive change for me.”

Under Andersen’s tenure, North Kitsap High School has seen many changes, including a growth in student population, a change to a four-class block schedule, and the addition of several programs, all of which he is proud of.

“There are a lot of positive programs that we’ve developed and implemented,” Andersen said.

He named NK Success, NK pride, and Holiday Fest as just a few.

“The work he’s done has contributed to the outstanding reputation NKHS has in the region and the state,” said Supt. Gene Medina.

Medina added that the district is pleased to have about a year to conduct a search for a new principal — especially since they are also on the lookout for principals at Kingston and Poulsbo Junior High.

Andersen and Medina also said that the strong staff at the high school will make the transition easier.

“I’ve been fortunate, lucky, to be the leader,” he remarked. “To inspire some of the people to do some of these things — I didn’t do them.”