Archie M. Smith of Churchville was named elementary school principal in the Lehighton Area School District during a special meeting of the school board last night.

Prior to the meeting, three applicants for the position were interviewed, with Smith then being recommended for the position by M. Eugene Hutchinson, superintendent of schools.

Smith, who will be paid $14,000 a year, will fill a vacancy created by the resignation of Fred Malone.

The new principal holds bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees, as well as elementary and principal’s certifications from Temple University.