MALDEN -- Cheverus School and Sacred Hearts Parish announced the appointment of their new principal, Thomas Arria Jr., Sept. 26. Arria joins Cheverus School from Bishop Ford Central Catholic High School in Brooklyn, N.Y., where he served as principal for the 2013-2014 school year .

"We are very excited to have Tom take charge at Cheverus School," Father Mark DeAngelis said. "He has a wealth of experience creating an achievement-rich environment both as an educator and administrator. Tom also has experience working with a diverse student population and the Malden community. He is a genuine example of Catholic spirituality and values. We are lucky to have him. "

Prior to serving as principal at Bishop Ford, Arria was the headmaster at Malden Catholic (MC) High School. He started his teaching career with MC in 1974 as a social studies teacher. He was also instrumental with the athletics department, where he coached basketball, track and baseball over the years. Arria earned a bachelor's degree in 1973 from Boston State College, a masters in Secondary Education from UMass Boston in 1978 and a certificate of advanced educational study in educational administration and Catholic school leadership from Boston College in 2004.

A Massachusetts native, Arria said he had been looking to move back to the area to be closer to family and friends. "I really wanted to be back in the area and the timing was right...I'm very excited to be here. I've been in the classrooms, playground and cafeteria getting to know these children and teachers. I'm already so proud of them. Together with the new assistant principal, Jeff Lane, we are excited to work with the staff, PTA and the community. Malden is a supportive city."

Cheverus is also pleased to announce the appointment of Jeff Lane as Assistant Principal. Mr. Lane is no stranger to Cheverus. He is the Director of the Extended Day Program and a long supporter of the school. He graduated from Providence College with a Bachelor of Arts in 1998. He has been with Cheverus since 2001.