The Rollinsford School Board has selected Richard Hartford of Northwood, NH to become the new principal of Rollinsford Grade School. Mr. Hartford will take over from Kate Lucas who is leaving after seven years to become the principal at Stratham Memorial School in Stratham, NH.
Mr. Hartford’s educational career spans nearly 25 years as a teacher and administrator. He started his career as a physical education teacher and became an administrator in 2002, starting his career as an assistant principal. He became the principal at Northwood Elementary School in 2009 where he worked for five years. In 2016, Rich decided to return to his roots in the classroom and is currently working as the K-5 physical education teacher at Idlehurst Elementary School in Somersworth.
Judy Nelson, Rollinsford School Board chair states, “Rich was the top candidate presented to the Board for this position and we believe is a good match for Rollinsford Grade School.” Lori Lane, Interim Superintendent of Schools for SAU 56 added, “Mr. Hartford will be taking over a school that is heavily invested in inquiry-based learning, a student-centered approach to learning. He was the unanimous choice of the principal search committee which included staff, parents and school board members, to bring to the school board as their finalist.”
Mr. Hartford will start his tenure as the new principal of Rollinsford Grade School on July 1st.