The Bainbridge Island School District has hired Erin Murphy as its new assistant superintendent of administrative services.

Murphy, currently the principal of Alderwood Middle School in the Edmonds School District, will replace Peter Bang-Knudsen, who will become district superintendent in July.

“As an educator, I believe the precursor to all learning is the establishment of a safe learning environment where relationships are developed and the needs of each learner are identified and addressed,” Murphy said.

“I’m an enthusiastic optimist and believe in working with others we can accomplish great things. It will be an honor to work with the staff, students and community of the Bainbridge Island School District,” she added.

Murphy earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in science and agriculture at Washington State University and spent her first eight years in education as a science and leadership teacher at Poulsbo Junior High School.

Her career includes numerous leadership positions in both the North Kitsap and Edmonds school districts. She spent four years as assistant principal at Mountlake Terrace High School before becoming principal at Alderwood Middle School in July 2011. Murphy is currently working on her state superintendent certification at Washington State University.

Under the direction of the superintendent, the assistant superintendent of administrative services is responsible for guiding personnel decisions and working collaboratively with other administrators to meet district goals and ensure alignment of educational programs, staffing and operations.

“Erin will be an outstanding addition to the Bainbridge Island School District leadership team,” said Sheryl Belt, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. “She brings with her an impressive range of educational and professional experiences and is highly regarded by her colleagues for her intelligence, sincerity, and genuine passion for students and teachers.”

“I want to thank our interview committee for doing an excellent job,” said Superintendent Faith Chapel, who will retire at the end of this month. “I know that with Peter, Sheryl and Erin at the helm, I am leaving the district in extremely capable hands.”