Greenville school directors Wednesday hired Brian S. Bronson as principal of East Elementary School.

Bronson replaces Sandy Rakar, who resigned in January and took an administrative position in the General McLane School District in Edinboro.

Greenville schools Superintendent Dr. Patricia M. Homer said the board "searched far and wide" and candidates had been interviewed since early this year.

But ultimately, said Director Michael Downing, "We found the best candidate right in our backyard."

Bronson was furloughed earlier this month by Reynolds Area School Board. He had been elementary co-principal there. Bronson had worked in Reynolds since 1999.

Greenville Business Manager Lynda Holm said a salary package has not been worked out for Bronson.