The Wellesley Public School system has named Charlene Cook as the next principal of Hardy Elementary School, delivering on a promise to make a decision by mid-May after the previously appointed new principal bowed out.Ed Kaufman from the Acton school system was named Hardy principal in February, but the Wellesley Public School system last month reposted the job opening, citing Kaufman’s need to withdraw for personal reasons.
As for Cook, who starts at Hardy July 1, she is currently principal at the J.L. Mulready Elementary School in Hudson, Mass., where she has served since 2004. Previously, Cook served as assistant director for teaching and
learning in the Boston Public Schools and as a classroom teacher at the Mather Elementary
School in Dorchester.
Wellesley school superintendent David Lussier says “The pool of applicants was very strong for this position, and I want to thank all of the staff and community members who participated throughout the selection process.” He also thanked Hardy interim principal Bernadine Small for her leadership this school year.