GUILFORD – A 32-year-old Danforth educator was hired Tuesday to take the helm in SAD 4.

Matthew Oliver, principal of East Grand School in Danforth, was awarded a two-year contract and a salary of $63,000 to serve as superintendent of schools. He will start his new position July 1.

“I’m just very, very pleased to have your confidence,” Oliver told SAD 4 directors Tuesday,

Earlier that evening the board had voted unanimously to hire him.

A native of Haynesville, Oliver said SAD 4 has a reputation for providing all students a vigorous curriculum and diverse co-curricular and extracurricular activities.

“It’s a gem, a hidden gem that I will promote to no end,” Oliver said.

Prior to his stint as principal at the Washington County K-12 school, Oliver taught for seven years at the William Cohen School in Bangor.

His wife, Lee-Rae Oliver, teaches fourth grade at the Fairmount School in Bangor.

Oliver said he was looking forward to working with the district’s innovative and academic-focused educators.

Aware that the district is facing a declining enrollment, he said he would work to promote the programs the district offers to attract more tuition students.

The new superintendent also said he wants an open line of communication with district residents.

He plans to meet in the future with selectmen and business leaders in the SAD 4 community.

“I’m most excited. I can’t wait to start,” Oliver said.