Educator Michael McDonald, who has been the assistant principal at Summit High School since 2004, has been selected as the school’s new principal, according to Bend-La Pine Schools, which announced the decision Wednesday.

McDonald will take the reins from Alice DeWittie, who will retire at the end of June. McDonald will start July 1.

McDonald’s background includes more than 25 years in education in Oregon, the school district said in a press release. At Summit, McDonald has worked to foster effective teacher practices and responsive academic and emotional support systems for students, the district said. He has also worked at the district and state levels to improve teacher evaluation and graduation rates.

“I think of the dedicated staff at Summit High School as a resource of wisdom, experience and guidance,” McDonald said in a statement released by the school district. “Our parents and students are also key contributors to our success and offer a unique lens into high school life. I plan to continue building on the strong collaborative foundation we currently enjoy and to learn more about their vision for the future.”