SEEKONK - The school committee has selected Madeline Meyer to be the new school superintendent.

Meyer is an assistant superintendent in Scotch Plains, N.J.

Meyer will replace Emile Chevrette, who is retiring at the end of the 2008-2009 school year.

School committee Chairman Fran Creamer called Meyer "a good communicator."

The search process began last November, when the committee tapped the Massachusetts Association of School Committees to assist with forming focus groups. Parents, teachers, administrators, and members of the community met several times over the last few months to outline the qualities they were looking for in a new school superintendent.

Creamer said the committee wanted "someone experienced in the budget process."

Meyer has spent time as a classroom teacher and as a central office administrator, according to Creamer.

Meyer was one of three finalists interviewed for the position. There had been 25 applicants for the position from all over the country, Creamer noted.

Creamer said Meyer will be visiting all the schools on May 7 and will meet with teachers and administrators.

A start date has not been set, but Meyer could begin as early as July 1.