HOPE — The trio of schools comprising School Union #69 — Appleton Village School, Hope Elementary School and Lincolnville Central School — have found its new superintendent.

Kathryn Clark has been hired as the new superintendent, according to a district news release. 

In her career, Clark has extensive experience at both the secondary and elementary level, the release noted.

A special education teacher in grades 2-12 for 17 years, Clark was also a school-based special education administrator at the secondary level for 10 years, an elementary principal for three years and, for the last three years, Director of Pupil Services.

Beyond her public school experience, Clark also served as the Director of Operations of a nationwide educational company and as the co-director of a children's theater program at Tufts University. 

“I come to School Union #69 as a learner and an educator. I am honored to be appointed as superintendent, and eager to learn as much as I can about the communities of Hope, Appleton and Lincolnville,” Clark said, in the release. “I have already discovered that we share deeply-held beliefs about the importance of creativity, social-emotional learning and high quality instruction, and I relish the opportunity to steward those values and lead this talented group of administrators, teachers and staff.” 

With over 30 years experience as a teacher, principal and district administrator in Massachusetts public schools, Clark holds a bachelor’s degree in special education from State University College at Fredonia in New York, a master’s in elementary education from Boston College and a certificate of advanced graduate studies in education leadership management from Northeastern University.

Clark and her husband, John, have lived in the Seacoast area of New Hampshire for over 20 years and have one son who is currently in college.

Drawn to the natural beauty, friendly people and vibrant communities of the Midcoast area, they are excited to hike, kayak and explore their new home, the release noted.

An amateur musician, Clark is looking forward to exploring musical opportunities in the area and she hopes to take advantage of the incredible local art scene and learn to paint.

Clark succeeds Dianne Helprin, who has served as the district’s superintendent for five years and will step down in June.