The School Committee has approved a three-year contract with new superintendent Kimberly Shaver-Hood.

Shaver-Hood, who replaces outgoing superintendent Dr. Barry Rabinovitch, begins work on August 1. She comes to Wareham from the Blackstone-Millville Regional School District, where she also served as superintendent.

"I am thrilled to be joining the Wareham school community," said Shaver-Hood. "I am looking forward to working with members of the school community and the citizens of Wareham as we strive to provide our students with an excellent educational experience."

According to the contract, Shaver-Hood will be paid a starting annual salary of $150,000 and, upon receiving an annual "satisfactory performance evaluation," may be eligible for a raise. The School Committee may award a merit bonus of up to 5% of the annual salary, the contract states.

Shaver-Hood received her Bachelor's degree from Franklin College and holds a Master's degree in Education Administration from Weidner University. She is currently completing her Doctorate at Northeastern University, where she has completed all coursework and is working on her dissertation.

Shaver-Hood takes the helm immediately following Rabinovitch's July 31 retirement.

During his last meeting with the School Committee on June 19, the committee and audience thanked Rabinovitch for his "commitment to the children of Wareham," School Committee Chair Rhonda Veugen said, and wished him well in his retirement.

Rabinovitch's base salary was $147,000. He received compensation for satisfactory performance reviews and longevity. The 2012 annual town report lists his earnings at $164,051.