Susan Parker has been selected principal of Good Shepherd Catholic School, 1300 Newport Ave., Northampton. She has been interim principal since August, taking over the helm from Paul Crescenzo.

Parker said she was excited to accept this position at the parochial school. Although her entire career in education has been with Catholic schools, this is her first appointment as a principal.

The school serves the parishes of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church and Queenship of Mary Church, both Northampton; Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church, Egypt; St. Peter Roman Catholic Church, Coplay; St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Stiles; and St. John Fisher Church, North Catasauqua.

Parker has held various teaching assignments at Good Shepherd Catholic Church. She said she will continue the high academic standards and Catholic religion hallmarks the school represents. Tradition is important, she added.

Drew Maron, chairman of the board of directors, reported the board conducted a two-month search process that included reviewing a number of resumes and interviews for the pricipal position. The board then recommended the appointment of Parker, which was approved by the pastors of the churches involved and the Diocesan Office of Education.

“A lifelong educator, Mrs. Parker brings a wealth of experience with her. She began her educational ministry as a teacher at Holy Family School, Philadelphia, and later at Our Lady of Hungary School, Northampton. Most recently, she has been our interim principal as well as serving students and community as a teacher at Good Shepherd Catholic School and director of religious education at her parish of Assumption BVM, Northampton,” Maron informed parents.

Parker holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Chestnut Hill College and a Master of Education in educational leadership from Holy Family University, both in Philadelphia, a Pennsylvania teaching certification in elementary education and completed course work through Cedar Crest College, Allentown, and DeSales University, Center Valley.

Good Shepherd has 174 students, kindergarten through eighth grade, and a preschool. There are 12 full-time teachers. Some of the curriculum includes math, spelling, Spanish, computer, science, art, music, physical education and religion. The school follows state standards in its teachings.