By Samuel Frattasio, ’27

News Editor

Hanover High School will see a familiar face step into a new role this spring, as longtime educator and curriculum director Matthew Plummer prepares to succeed retiring Principal Matthew Mattos in April. Mr. Plummer, or “Plum” as students and staff call him, was a 1985 HHS graduate who has spent more than three decades serving the school as both a teacher and administrator. He was formally announced as the next principal in a December message to families from Superintendent Matt Ferron. 

For many in Hanover, Mr. Plummer’s selection represents a choice for both continuity and growth at the high school. At the January 7th School Committee meeting, he emphasized that even a strong school like HHS should “continue to look for ways to improve,” outlining priorities such as reviewing the NEASC accreditation report, exploring potential changes to the schedule, and expanding courses in financial literacy, communications, and artificial intelligence. He also shared a long-term goal of building a working greenhouse on campus that could support science classes and serve as a space where “any student who really wants to can can go pick up a carnation or a mum and bring it home to their parents,” underscoring his belief that “it’s always about the students” and that the school’s job is to create as many opportunities as possible for them to shine. 

As the school looks ahead to this transition, the community is also taking time to recognize the impact of Principal Mattos’ tenure. Since stepping into the role in 2021, he has guided the building through the post-pandemic period, overseeing major initiatives while maintaining a steady, student-centered focus. Under his leadership, HHS introduced the Vision of the Graduate framework, Mission Mondays, the Friday music challenge, and other traditions that have helped define the school’s culture and strengthen a sense of community. Colleagues and families credit his thoughtful transition planning with positioning HHS for a smooth change in leadership this spring, and many express a deep appreciation for the way he has kept students at the center of every decision. 

As we move into this next chapter, the change from Mr. Mattos to Mr. Plummer signals both gratitude and optimism about the future. With a “homegrown” principal focused on student opportunity and a community eager to support him, the school appears well-positioned to build on its strengths while continuing to evolve. 

References

Evans, Justin. “‘Homegrown’ Leader Matthew Plummer Named Next Principal of Hanover High.” South Shore News, 15 Jan. 2026, 

“Upcoming Leadership Change at Hanover High School 12/18/25.” Hanover Public Schools, 18 Dec. 2025,