JUNEAU -- A principal from Alaska's western Interior has been named rural education coordinator for the state education department.

Christopher Simon's appointment takes effect Thursday but is subject to approval by a state board. He replaces Phyllis Carlson, who was tapped to coordinate the Parents as Teachers Program.

The department, in a news release, says Simon was principal of the Jimmy Huntington School in Huslia since 2010. His experience includes seven years as superintendent of the Yukon-Koyukuk School District and serving as dean of students at the Nenana City Schools.

In his new role, Simon will be charged with improving the department's outreach to rural communities and Native organizations, promoting the governor's education priorities, building rapport with legislators and identifying new ways to improve education delivery in rural Alaska.