HULL — Oct. 5, 2026 — Ellen Murray, the incoming Hull High School principal, will start full-time Nov. 9, the Hull School Committee was told Monday, filling a post left open when the previous principal resigned in early August. A 12-point transition plan lays out the handoff. Members also gave a final read to the policies listed on the agenda, including the student cell phone policy, by voice vote.
The Full Story
Murray accepted the district’s offer to lead the high school and will finish a current job before arriving Nov. 9, the committee heard during the superintendent’s business items. The update described a deliberate search for one good candidate willing to carry forward initiatives already underway at the school.
In brief remarks, the incoming principal cited going on 28 years in education, around 17 of them in leadership, and invited the community to stop by and say hello at Friday night’s game.
I just want everyone to know, and this is the truth, that my door is always open, so that’s for parents, students, school committee members, coaches, everyone and anyone that has an impact here at this school.
— Ellen Murray, incoming Hull High School principal (7:56)
The transition plan’s 12 points fall under a few themes. Before Nov. 9, families are to receive email from Murray; the principal’s office is to be set up in advance so the first day is not spent unpacking boxes; and the Friday homecoming football game is meant to introduce Murray to the public, possibly with an appearance on the field. After Murray arrives, central office staff who have been filling gaps at the high school will hand that work over, and the leadership team will continue routine support, including mentoring opportunities.
Schools in leadership transitions across New England often struggle to keep momentum when a new leader arrives and initiatives stall, the presentation noted. Every piece of the plan, the committee was told, is designed to keep the high school’s work advancing.
Members welcomed the hire. Brendan Kilroe, speaking on behalf of the committee, noted that members have children in the high school or have had children go through it.
But we’re invested in your success and we will knock down walls and mountains and all that stuff to make you successful.
— Brendan Kilroe, School Committee (13:30)
Courtney Littlefield called it imperative to set Murray up for success and asked for a standing transition update at committee meetings, citing an earlier recommendation and a possible 90-day window. Liliana Hedrick said Murray’s presence at Friday’s game and around parents and families would make a big impact on the transition.
