The North Kitsap School District has decided not to rehire Anh Tran as athletic director for NK High and Poulsbo Middle schools.

“For me, being the athletic director has been more than just a job, it has been a calling—a calling to serve, inspire and uplift those around me,” Tran said. “Each day, I’ve had the honor of witnessing the incredible dedication and passion of our athletes, the tireless commitment of our coaches, and the unwavering support of our community.”

NKSD is shifting the NK Education Association athletic coordinator position into a classified administrator position. So, the position will not be part of the NKEA bargaining unit. Tran took over as athletic director this school year when Matt Stanford stepped down.

NKSD interim superintendent Rachel Davenport said Tran and other applicants who do not get the role are continuing employees and will have opportunities for NKEA-covered positions should they either choose to not apply or if they are not the successful candidate.

Tran, who was girls golf coach and an NKHS teacher before being named AD, was upset by the decision.

Tran said, “As I move onto the next chapter of my teaching journey, I carry with me the lessons learned and the relationships built during my time as athletic director. And though I may no longer hold this title, my commitment to serving and uplifting others will continue to guide me in all that I do.”

NKSD will not announce the new athletic director for at least a week.

Since the NKSD is shifting the position, Kingston athletic director Ed Call had to reapply, too. However, Call was chosen March 29 to continue in his role at Kingston High and Middle School.

Kingston principal Miranda Joy Smallwood said, “We are proud to have been able to hire the best, most qualified candidate to continue leading our Cavalier and Buccaneer athletic programs forward.”