CANAAN — A longtime New Jersey-based elementary educator has been appointed as Canaan Elementary School’s new principal.

Jody Viereck is currently an adjunct professor and clinical practice supervisor at Rowan University in Glassboro, N.J., according to a Monday news release from the Mascoma Valley Regional School District.

Viereck brings more than two decades of experience in elementary education to Canaan. She taught math and science in the Mannigton Township School District from 1998-2015, and then served in supervisory roles in the district until 2021.

“We appreciate her extensive background in elementary age students and their growth and development,” Superintendent Amanda Isabelle said in a telephone interview Monday.

Viereck’s background in technology, including running a Girls Who Code after-school club will be an asset, Isabelle said.

“She fits our philosophy,” of tailoring intervention programs to kids and addressing behavioral issues in a “positive, rather than punitive, way,” Isabelle said.

Viereck replaces April Guinness, who has served as interim principal since July following the departure of Leah Wheelan, who is now the principal of the Hanover Street School in Lebanon. Guinness will move to Mascoma High School to serve as an academic coordinator, Isabelle said.

Viereck’s contract is for one year, with a salary “in the mid-90(,000)s,” Isabelle said.