After barely a year on the job, high school principal Gil Traverso has resigned, Vineyard schools superintendent Matthew D’Andrea confirmed Friday. Mr. Traverso has taken a new position in New Haven, Conn.

The head of a vocational school in Springfield has been hired as the new principal for the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. Gilbert Traverso was chosen for his leadership and people skills, superintendent James H. Weiss said.

Gil Traverso, principal of the Roger L. Putnam Vocational-Technical Academy in Springfield, and David Maxwell, associate principal at Valley High School in West Des Moines, Iowa, are both in the running for the top post at the regional high school.

Vineyard schools superintendent Dr. James H. Weiss notified school parents and teachers Monday that Mr. Nixon, who had been on leave of absence since last week, had resigned. Assistant superintendent Matthew D'Andrea has been named acting principal.

The words “goofy” and “high school principal” are unlikely to follow one another in a game of free association. For Margaret (Peg) Regan, who will resign as principal of the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School this month after nine years in the job, that’s been part of the problem, particularly recently. Sitting in her office last week she explained why it is time for a break.

January tears were replaced by October smiles welcoming U.S. Marine Lieut. Col. Michael Halt back to West Tisbury on Monday.