Dear Oak Harbor Community,

Oak Harbor Public Schools would like to share an important leadership update for North Whidbey Middle School.

Principal Russ Peters has recently shared his decision to retire following 11 impactful years of service to North Whidbey Middle School. Throughout his tenure, Mr. Peters has been a steady and caring leader who has made a lasting difference for students, staff, and families. He will be fondly remembered for the warmth and joy he brought to the school community; from his welcoming presence each day to his much-loved karaoke lunch debuts that brought smiles, laughter, and connection to the students and staff of North Whidbey. We are deeply grateful for his dedication and the legacy he leaves behind.

Following thoughtful conversations with students, staff, and administrators, Oak Harbor Public Schools is pleased to announce that Mr. Beez Lucero has been selected as the next principal of North Whidbey Middle School.

Mr. Lucero is a trusted and familiar leader within the NWMS community, having served as assistant principal for more than three years. He brings extensive experience as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, athletic director, and high school principal. In the past, he has also stepped into the role of building leader at North Whidbey, demonstrating the steady leadership, care, and commitment to our community values.

“North Whidbey is an incredible school and I am excited to continue the important work we have been doing with our tremendous staff, students, and families,” said Mr. Lucero.

Throughout the selection process, the North Whidbey Middle School community shared a clear vision for its next principal: a leader who puts students first, listens deeply, builds authentic partnerships, and remains focused on continuous improvement and collaboration. Across all groups, Mr. Lucero consistently stood out as the leader who best embodies these qualities. Students and staff described him as approachable, committed to success, and someone who leads by example.

As one staff member shared, “Beez Lucero embodies everything that makes North Whidbey special. He loves our students and staff and listens to us. I also appreciate how he dives into our work to help us grow. He approaches his profession with a great deal of humility, which is an important trait for a head principal.”

This transition will create a vacancy in the assistant principal role at North Whidbey Middle School. Mr. Lucero will work closely with the leadership team to begin the process of searching for the next assistant principal.

Please join us in thanking Mr. Peters for his years of service and in congratulating Mr. Lucero as he steps into this new role. We are excited for the continuity, leadership, and care he will bring to North Whidbey Middle School and the broader Oak Harbor community.