RSU 3 appoints new superintendent

Paul Austin, who works in the Brunswick School Department, has been named Regional School Unit 3 superintendent, the district announced Wednesday.

Austin, who is the director of student services in Brunswick, succeeds Heather Perry, who is becoming superintendent in the Gorham School District, according to a news release from the district. RSU 3 includes Brooks, Freedom, Jackson, Knox, Liberty, Monroe, Montville, Thorndike, Troy, Unity and Waldo.

Austin, who begins July 1, was elected Monday at a school board meeting.

In addition to working the past nine years in Brunswick, he also was assistant superintendent in Damariscotta-based School Union 74, which is now part of Alternative Organizational Structure 93.

He has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Maine at Farmington, a master’s degree in school psychology from the University of Southern Maine and a certificate of advanced study in educational leadership from the University of Maine. He is also set to complete a doctoral program in public policy and educational leadership through the Muskie Center at the University of Southern Maine this fall, according to the release.

Austin has grown children and lives with his wife, Lisa, in Nobleboro.

A 15-member search committee led by RSU 3 Board Chairman Myrick Cross carried out the search for a new superintendent. Austin was selected from among 10 applicants, four of whom were interviewed.

“We feel as though this process, although long, was extremely thorough and well worth the wait,” Cross said in the release. “We thank those that volunteered during this process for their service to the district. We are confident in his leadership and excited for the future of RSU 3.”