Martin Elementary School Welcomes a New Principal

Principal Kevin Madden left his post at the George R. Martin Elementary School this summer, but his position didn't stay vacant for long. A hiring committee made a swift move to find his replacement.

After narrowing down the applicant pool of 69 to 14 and then down to a final four, the committee decided Bartholomew Lush, a New Bedford principal at the time, was the best fit for the school.

"He was really well rounded in many areas ... He was a clear thinker, centered around what was best for the kids," said Superintendent Madeline Meyer, noting he has experience in technology. "We're really excited to welcome him."

For the past three years he served as an administrator in the New Bedford Public Schools. He started his career in Attleboro public schools. There, Lush taught first and second grade before eventually ending up in a third grade-classroom while carrying the extra responsibility of lead teacher for the school. He later became the school's principal.

Lush graduated from St. Bonaventure University with a bachelor's degree in journalism/mass communications. He went on to graduate from Bridgewater State University with a master's degree in educational leadership.

He has three children; his twins are in kindergarten. The Pawtucket resident will be ready to start by the first day of school. For students, the year starts on Tuesday, Sept. 6.