By Carol Britton Meyer

Superintendent of Schools Michael Jette introduced incoming high school principal Ellen Murray at this week’s school committee meeting and outlined the plan that is in place to ensure a smooth transition.

Murray, the current assistant principal of Norwell Middle School, replaces former Principal Robert Shaw, who resigned in early August.

Following his resignation, “we began a very deliberate and purposeful path to find a new principal,” Jette told the committee on Monday night. “We said from the beginning that all we need to find is one good candidate to take the helm of the school and lead us on the pathway we’re already on – we have some really good initiatives [under way].”

When Murray joins the high school staff on November 9, “she will be ready to hit the ground running on both feet,” Jette said.

Murray, who has been in the education field for 18 years – most of those in leadership roles – said she “can’t wait to get started.

“My door is always open – to parents, students, the school committee, and coaches – working together to keep the forward momentum going,” she said.

The new principal plans to attend Friday’s Homecoming game to meet school families and other members of the community.

“I’ll see you all there!” she said.

Jette outlined the transition plan intended “to get off to a great start” – including establishing email communication with parents and other community members prior to Murray’s start date so they can “hear directly from Ms. Murray.”

Staff will her get settled in her office ahead of time, and the leadership team and central office will provide ongoing support as they have been doing in Shaw’s absence – “pitching in to fill in the gaps to ensure the high school continues to function as it should,” Jette said.

“This will help ensure a smooth transition. Keeping the forward momentum going can be a challenge, but we’re committed to ensuring that we stay on track … and provide the attention to Hull High School that it deserves.…We’re also looking at mentoring opportunities,” the superintendent said.

Jette said he encourages any feedback – “comments, concerns, or worries, and we will be sure they are addressed.”

School committee member Courtney Littlefield said she’s “super excited” about Murray stepping into the high school principal role and is looking forward “to what’s to come.”

Member Brendan Kilroe told Murray, “We’re all invested in your success, and we will knock down walls and mountains to ensure that [happens].”

Member Lily Hedrick said she would “love to have periodic updates” as the transition moves forward, and that Murray being at Friday’s game is a “big deal” as an opportunity for her to “meet some parents and having people see you around.”

The Homecoming football game against South Shore Technical High School starts at 6 p.m. on Friday, October 9.

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