Mary Foster, the new principal at Lincoln-Thomson Elementary School in Lynn. Photo by Paula Muller
By Leah Dearborn
LYNN — Mary Foster is starting off her first year as principal of the Lincoln-Thomson Elementary School in West Lynn with enthusiasm.
Foster, a 22-year veteran of the Lynn Public School system, is taking the helm as principal following the retirement of Helen Psallidas Mihos.
When asked about the best part of the job, Foster was quick to reply.
“Being with children,” she said. “They make you laugh every day. And I’m the right height to work in an elementary school.”
Foster said she was first drawn to the field of education out of an interest in her own children’s experiences in public school. It was an interest that eventually lead Foster to spend 17 years of her career teaching at Lincoln-Thomson Elementary despite originally earning her degree in nutrition.
As far as changes go, Foster said that she doesn’t plan on making any drastic alterations as she eases into the position. Expressing a desire to leave things at Lincoln-Thomson at the current status quo, Foster said she has great admiration for the Lynn school system overall. Foster said that for many returning students, her face is a familiar one, but she’s also excited to meet and greet new scholars as a great school year begins.
Foster had a few parting words for predecessor Helen Mihos, who is retiring after more than three decades of service.
“Her friends here say, we’ll see you at the beach!” said Foster with a laugh.
In addition to the changes at Lincoln-Thomson, Anthony Frye is also stepping in as interim principal at the Ingalls Elementary School on Collins Street Terrace. Lynn School Superintendent Dr. Catherine C. Latham said that Frye will be in the position until the beginning of 2017 while Ingalls Principal Irene P. Cowdell temporarily takes over at the Washington Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Elementary School.
Latham said that Frye has been at Ingalls for at least a year as a program specialist, working beneath Cowdell.
“I’m sure it’s going to be a wonderful school year,” said Latham.
