COURTLAND—Southampton High School algebra teacher Susan Melbye has been named assistant principal for Southampton Middle School.

Melbye, who also coaches varsity softball, began her new job Wednesday.

“It’s just something I was really passionate about,” she said about applying for the position left vacant by the resignation of Pamela Hartnett, who took a principal’s job in Petersburg. “It was a great opportunity and I’m just really excited and looking forward to working with the staff.”

Melbye was hired during Monday’s school board meeting.

“We are delighted that Mrs. Susan Melbye has been selected to serve in the role of assistant principal at Southampton Middle School,” said Superintendent Charles Turner. “Mrs. Melbye has experienced tremendous success as a teacher, is very knowledgeable in the area of curriculum and instruction, and works extremely well with students, staff and parents.”

A native of Fries, Melbye received a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts with a minor in middle school education from James Madison University in Harrisonburg. She has a master’s degree in administrative supervision from Arizona State in Tempe.

Melbye spent two years teaching middle school math and science at Westmoreland County Public Schools, and three years teaching the same classes at Dysart Unified School District in Surprise, Ariz.

She has been with Southampton County Public Schools for three years.

In related matters, the school board hired:

• Brandon Lilley to teach science at Southampton Middle School. He has a master’s degree from Virginia Tech.

• Accepted a resignation from Justin R. Forrest from grounds and maintenance.

• Named Amanda Poteet junior varsity volleyball coach, Ricky Epps assistant varsity football coach and Paul Jackson as assistant junior varsity football coach.