Interim Principal Named For Lower Merion High School

LOWER MERION TOWNSHIP, PA — Lower Merion High School has a new principal, albeit for a temporary period.

According to the Lower Merion School District, the Lower Merion Board of School Directors is appointing Jim Scanlon as the interim principal after Sean Hughes's passing.

Scanlon was superintendent of schools at the West Chester School District for 12 years and before that served as superintendent at Brandywine School District and Quakertown School District, as well as assistant superintendent at Neshaminy School District. He also taught and served as an elementary school principal in both Central Bucks and Neshaminy.

"I am confident that Dr. Scanlon's caring, knowledge and experience will help our Lower Merion High School community move forward after the devastating loss of Mr. Hughes and that he will offer much-needed support to the students, staff and families," Lower Merion School District Superintendent Khalid N. Mumin said in the announcement.

Scanlon hold the interim principal position through the remainder of the 2021-22 school year as the district searched for a permanent successor to Hughes is conducted.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the family members of Sean Hughes, as well as the Lower Merion School District Community," Scanlon said. "I am looking forward to getting to know the students, staff and parents of Lower Merion High School during this very emotional time of transition. It's an honor to serve as interim principal."

Scanlon holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the University of Pittsburgh, as well as a master's degree and his doctorate in Education from Temple University.

He lives in West Chester with his wife, Beth Trapani, sons, and two dogs.