New principal hired for Maine South

Shawn Messmer, assistant principal of a suburban Philadelphia high school, will become Maine South High School's new principal as of July 1.

He replaces David Claypool, who is leaving Maine South for Wheaton Warrenville South.

For five years, Messmer has been assistant principal of Souderton Area High School, which has 2,200 students in a community of about 40,000 located 30 miles north of Philadelphia.

"It was clear that Mr. Messmer has had a genuine impact on the school and the students and staff who work at and attend (Souderton)," said District 207 Superintendent Ken Wallace, District 207 Superintendent, as Messmer topped a field of more than 50 candidates for the Maine South position.

Messmer's appointment was formally approved Tuesday, and he issued a statement, expressing "sincere gratitude to the Maine Township High School District 207 Board of school directors for giving me the tremendous opportunity to serve this community as principal of Maine Township High School South.

"I am excited to be a part of continuing Maine South's tradition of excellence and helping the district fulfill its vision for the future. It is a rare opportunity in the career of an educator to become part of a school district known for its exemplary achievements in academics, the arts, and athletics."