The school district that covers Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Arundel announced Tuesday, July 15, the appointment of Martin Grimm as the next superintendent.

Grimm was chosen after a search process that spanned more than three months. He will officially begin his three-year contract with RSU 21 on Sept. 1.

Current Superintendent Terri Cooper announced her resignation in March after five years with the district. Her last official day is Aug. 31.

“I am beyond excited to join the RSU 21 community as the next superintendent,” Grimm said in the news release.

Holding a doctorate in educational leadership from Virginia Tech, Grimm has spent more than 25 years in leadership roles in K-12 and higher education. He began his career in Colorado, serving as an elementary physical education teacher and dean of students in small Colorado school districts.

Later, Grimm moved to northern Virginia, where he worked in academic administration as an assistant principal. According to the news release, Grimm advanced his career in Fairfax County, Virginia, where he served as principal at two different schools, prioritizing community engagement, implementing staff recognition programs, and introducing academic interventions that helped raise achievements for historically underserved groups.

Most recently, Grimm held the position of director of student activities and athletics within the Central Administration Office of Prince William County Public Schools in Virginia.

As superintendent of RSU 21, Grimm said he looks forward to working with the community to not only uphold the traditions and achievements of RSU 21, but also to build on its success by fostering a culture of innovation, equity, and support where every student can thrive.

“Building strong and genuine relationships with staff, families, and community partners is something I deeply value,” Grimm wrote.

RSU 21 School Board Chair Matthew Stratford said the district is “incredibly excited” to welcome Grimm.

“His leadership experience spans every level of education,” Stratford said. “From the classroom to school principal and, most recently, to senior district leadership, reflecting a thoughtful progression grounded in service, vision, and impact.”

Throughout the superintendent search process, Grimm’s commitment to building strong relationships, fostering supportive school cultures, and creating opportunities for everyone to succeed stood out to the board, Stratford said.

“We look forward to working with Dr. Grimm as we continue advancing the goals of our strategic plan and strengthening our district’s future,” he said.

Members of the RSU 21 community are reacting to the appointment, saying they hope Grimm can help the district move forward.

Kennebunk resident Melissa McCue-McGrath said she is “cautiously optimistic” about the new superintendent, but she believes in the current school board and its transparency.

“The proof will be in the pudding,” McCue-McGrath said. “I am hopeful. My last hope is that if there are mistakes, he will take responsibility and actually lead the district. But I am hopeful.”

Grimm is joined in the Kennebunk area by his wife, two children in college, and two dogs.