MARION — Plainville resident Marla Sirois will take the reins as principal at Sippican School when current principal Evelyn Rivet retires in July.

The selection of Sirois, principal of the Taft Early Learning Center in Uxbridge, was announced by the Old Rochester Regional School District on April 24.

The announcement concluded a months-long search and interview process that yielded two finalists: Sirois and Charley West, vice principal of Rochester Memorial School.

Sirois is a 24-year veteran of the Uxbridge Public School District.

She previously served as a curriculum and instruction leader for nine years, a literacy coach for two years, a reading specialist for 11 years, and a classroom teacher for two years.

According to the ORR District announcement, colleagues describe her as a “passionate, confident, intelligent, and competent educational leader who always places the needs of the students as her first priority.”

She earned a master’s degree in education at Lesley University.

She also has a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in School Administration from American International College.

During an April 2 visit to Sippican School, where she spoke with administrators, parents, teachers and students, Sirois said she is entering a period of transition in her life.

Her as her youngest daughter is heading off to college, and Sirois wants to live and work in Marion.

She expressed appreciation for Marion and said that if she was selected she would look forward to cutting down her hour-long commute to work. 

Superintendent Doug White made the final selection after visiting Sirois’ school.

Sirois will begin her new position in July, the month in which Rivet is retiring after nine years as principal.