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Hello Marcus Families,

I am honored to serve as principal of Marcus Whitman Middle School and to be part of a community that believes every student deserves to be known, valued, and challenged. This is a special place, and I am proud to call it home.

With more than twenty years of experience in education, I have taught and led across K–12 public and dual language schools. As a first-generation college graduate and lifelong learner, I know firsthand the difference a great school can make, and I bring that belief to work every day.

My focus has always been on literacy, leadership, and school culture, building places where students feel safe, supported, challenged, and inspired to grow. I love developing people, solving problems, and creating schools where both students and adults thrive.

At MWMS, my goal is to work alongside our incredible students, families, and staff to make Marcus Whitman a premier school of choice in Washington State.

I am so glad you are here.

~ Tara Ranzy, Principal

Hello Marcus Families,

I am excited to return to the South Kitsap School District and serve as the assistant principal at Marcus Whitman Middle School. It is an honor to join a school community that is committed to helping every student grow, belong, and succeed.

My journey to education has been anything but traditional. After spending ten years in the tourism industry, I followed my lifelong passion for teaching after the birth of my son. As part of a military family, I have had the privilege of teaching and leading in schools across New York, Virginia, Connecticut, Hawaii, and Washington. Those experiences have shaped my belief that every student deserves a safe, welcoming environment where they are challenged, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

Since making Port Orchard our home in 2012, I have had the opportunity to serve our community as an English Language Arts teacher and Dean of Students at South Kitsap High School. Most recently, I served as assistant principal at Poulsbo Middle School, and I am thrilled to be returning home to South Kitsap.

Building strong relationships with students, staff, families, and the community has always been at the heart of my work. I look forward to partnering with you to create a positive, inclusive school where every student feels connected and empowered to succeed.

April Emerson, Assistant Principal