Dear PSD Families,

We are thrilled to announce that Josh Zarling will be joining the Peninsula High School family as the new Principal. 

Zarling comes to PSD with 25 years of experience in education, including 19 years as a principal and district leader. He served most recently as the Director of District Data Services at Tacoma Public Schools (TPS), while also supporting principals nationally as a leadership consultant at the University of Washington. Previously, he was a principal at multiple schools in TPS and Clover Park School District, and internationally at the International School Port of Spain. Zarling began his career as a high school social studies teacher, earning Teacher of the Year honors at Bainbridge High School.

“We are so happy to welcome Josh Zarling to Peninsula High School," said Superintendent Krestin Bahr. “Josh brings a phenomenal track record of closing opportunity gaps and building highly collaborative, student-centered school cultures. His philosophy of listening to the community and empowering educators aligns perfectly with our district's mission to ensure every student feels known, supported, and challenged.”

Josh is a dynamic educational leader with an extensive and diverse leadership background that will benefit PHS. His commitment to student success and relationship-centered approach make him a valuable addition to our leadership team.

“From listening to PHS students so far, I have learned that they value being challenged, supported, engaged, known, and having a strong sense of belonging,” said Zarling. “I am excited to listen, learn, and partner with the PHS community as we continue building on the school’s strengths to inspire and empower every student, every day.”

Josh Zarling holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Washington, and a Master's and Bachelor’s degree from Western Washington University. His educational philosophy emphasizes that each school is unique, and leadership must start with understanding people and their experiences. Outside of school, he enjoys spending time with family and friends and relaxing by fishing for salmon, trout, or steelhead on Hood Canal and Olympic Peninsula rivers.

Please join us in welcoming Josh Zarling to Peninsula High School. We look forward to the impacts he will have on our school community.

Sincerely, 

PSD Leadership