SANFORD — Sanford High School has a new principal, and as it turns out, she’s pretty familiar with the school.

Marianne Sylvain ”“ who began her 23-year tenure at Sanford High School as a math teacher, became chairperson of the department in 1994 and an assistant principal in 2004 ”“ was chosen from a field of 27 applicants.

Superintendent David Theoharides said he is happy to appoint Sylvain as the new principal.

“She brings great school leadership experiences to Sanford High School,” he said.

Sylvain succeeds outgoing Principal Jed Petsinger, who will be moving overseas at the end of June. The Sanford School Committee unanimously endorsed Sylvain’s appointment to the position June 18.

To prepare for the selection, the school department conducted an online survey of parents, students, teachers and community members asking them to identify key attributes and skills desired for the new principal. Those surveyed were also asked what they felt were the greatest challenges or initiatives facing Sanford High School. A majority said the implementation of state-required proficiency-based diplomas starting with the Class of 2018 as their greatest challenge, along with the new high school and technical center construction project.

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The search process for the high school principal began in the spring. Twenty-seven candidates were screened and four were selected to be interviewed, Theoharides said in a prepared statement.

He said four interview teams representing parents, students, teachers and administrators conducted interviews of the four finalists. Sylvain was recommended to be brought to the school committee for a second interview, and she was then appointed to the job.

Sylvain earned a bachelor’s degree in science in secondary education and a master’s degree in educational leadership, both from the University of Southern Maine.

“I look forward to working with the students and staff of Sanford High School and Sanford Regional Technical Center, and connecting with the community and businesses to make the educational experiences for our students exciting and rewarding,” Sylvain said in the statement released by Theoharides.

Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 324-4444 (local call in Sanford) or 282-1535, ext. 327 or twells@journaltribune.com.



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