MALVERN -- The Great Valley School Board hired Dr. Alan Lonoconus, superintendent of the Shikellamy School District, as its new superintendent Monday night, according to Beth McGarrigle, board president.

She said he will begin his tenure in Great Valley sometime between mid November and early December. Dr. Lonoconus is expected to present his resignation to the Shikellamy School Board Thursday night.

Sources said the school board is considering Dr. James Hartman, former superintendent, as an interim replacement.

Dr. Lonoconus has been superintendent in the Shikellamy School District since 2006. Prior to Shikellamy, Dr. Lonoconus worked in the Southern Columbia School district from 1980 to 2006. He began his career there as a teacher, moving on to become a guidance counselor, curriculum and technology coordinator, high school principal and finally superintendent.

Since May, the Great Valley School Board has been working with consultants, McPherson and Jacobson, of Omaha, Neb., to conduct its search for a new superintendent.

In September, after review of 15 applications, the board selected six semi-finalists. After completing preliminary interviews, the field was narrowed to three finalists. During the week of Oct. 5th, the finalists met with six focus groups from across the district as well as the school board. After a rigorous interview and evaluation process, the board selected Dr. Lonoconus as the next superintendent for Great Valley.

The Great Valley School District is located 25 miles west of Philadelphia in historic Chester County, with access to King of Prussia and Philadelphia by Route 202 and the Schuykill Expressway. The district encompasses Malvern Borough, Charlestown, East Whiteland and Willistown Townships.

McGarrigle said, "We look forward to welcoming Dr. Alan Lonoconus as the next superintendent for the Great Valley School District. We are confident that his skills and vision will serve Great Valley well."