PORT ANGELES — Port Angeles High School will have a new principal as of July 1.

Tanner Zahrt, who most recently served as assistant principal at ACE (Academy for Career Education) High School in Reno, Nev., will take over for Jeff Clark, who will retire this school year.

17 years with district

Clark served for 17 years with the district, seven of those as PAHS principal, eight years as assistant principal, and two years as district director of technology and athletics.

Zahrt will lead 762 students and nearly 100 staff members.

“I am excited that Mr. Zahrt will be joining the Port Angeles community as the new PAHS principal,” said Superintendent Martin Brewer.

“He will bring a solid educational background to the high school and district. I am confident his strengths as an instructional leader and his knowledge of restorative practices will be an asset to our community.

“Mr. Zahrt is known for collaborating with school community partners, and he has a solid drive to provide successful educational opportunities for all students.”

Zahrt received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Nevada and a master’s degree from Western Governors University in educational leadership.

Reno district

In Reno, Zahrt served as assistant principal at ACE High School, dean of students for Washoe County School District, English language arts teacher and administrative intern at Billinghurst Middle School.

In Sparks, Nev., Zahrt was an English teacher and debate coach at Spanish Springs High School.

“I am excited to join the Port Angeles community,” Zahrt said.

“I’ve always loved the area. I grew up in a small town, and it has always been a dream to move to a place like PA to raise our family.”