A new principal has been hired for Homer High School and is set to begin next school year. Eric Pederson has more than two decades of educational leadership experience and is not new to Homer or the Kenai Peninsula. He is currently the school district’s director of Elementary Education and previously served as the principal of Paul Banks Elementary from 2013 to 2021. He holds a Master of Education in K-12 education administration from the University of Alaska Anchorage.

According to a post on Homer High School’s official Facebook page, Pederson’s leadership is marked by “strong collaboration, high expectations, and a deep belief in the potential of every student (and) throughout his career — from his early days teaching in rural Alaska to his work as a principal mentor and state leader — Eric has built a reputation as a thoughtful, student-centered leader who leads with integrity, vision, and heart.”

During his public interview held last week, Pederson said he grew up in a household of educators and spent his fair share of time in the principal’s office as a student, giving him a unique perspective on the student-principal relationship.

When asked why he wants to work at Homer High School, he had a simple answer.

“I want to make it the best school in the state.”

Pederson said his biggest priority is building relationships, which require a “building block of trust” between staff and students. His philosophy on discipline is that it is an opportunity for growth.

“It’s a chance to help a young adult make decisions that are better.”

When asked what meaningful student interaction looks like for him, Pederson said he spends a lot of time in hallways, connecting with students.

“Again, it’s all about relationships and trust.”

Principal Douglas Waclawski announced his retirement at the end of the 2024-2025 school year in Homer High School’s March 2025 newsletter. Waclawski was the principal at Homer High School for 15 years.

Kenai Peninsula Borough School District representatives interviewed four candidates, including Pederson, for the position Wednesday, April 9. Around 60 people attended on Zoom, with more attending in person at the Homer High School library.

Each candidate was asked 14 questions over 45 minutes. Audience members were welcome to listen but not allowed to ask questions or interact with the applicants. Those in attendance were given an online survey, along with a link to the candidates’ resumes, to provide community feedback on the interviews.

Other candidates interviewed were current Seward High School Principal Henry Burns; Christopher Ruggles, assistant principal for activities at both Dimond and South Anchorage High Schools; and Katie Bynagle, current assistant principal at Homer High School.

Reach reporter Chloe Pleznac at chloe.pleznac@homernews.com.