A 1990 graduate of Scarborough High School and teacher leader at the district’s three elementary schools has been named principal of Pleasant Hill Primary School.

Kelly Mullen-Martin replaces Evelyn Horton, who is retiring.

Horton, a 34-year veteran, has been principal at Pleasant Hill for a decade. Mullen-Martin assumes her position July 1.

Mullen-Martin was recommended by a search committee composed of community members, staff members and School Board members, Superintendent David Doyle said.

“She impressed them,” Doyle said. “She’s got a great way with people. She really has strong feelings for students, and she’s very impressive … She’s been a great lady to work with.”

Mullen-Martin has been a consulting teacher for the primary schools since 2003.

Doyle said the search committee interviewed six well-qualified finalists for the position before recommending Mullen-Martin. Doyle approved their choice.

Doyle said Horton, who served as assistant principal at Wentworth Intermediate School before being named principal at Pleasant Hill, will be missed.

“She’s done a great job in the schools,” he said. “We’ll miss her. She brought a lot to the table.”

Mullen-Martin has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Southern Maine and a master’s degree in special education. She is currently completing a master’s degree in educational leadership at the University of New England. She taught at Spurwink School prior to becoming the K-2 consulting teacher in Scarborough.