CLAYTON — The First State Military Academy board of directors has selected Dr. Lilyana Auster as the school’s new principal.

Dr. Auster previously held leadership positions in Ames, Iowa, and in Stamford and Hartford, Connecticut, at both school and district levels. Her background also includes experience in civil engineering, English as a second language and math.

First State’s current senior instructor, retired Marine Corps Col. Robert Wallace, will become commandant, which more closely matches his duties.

Dr. Auster took over as principal in early August, replacing Patrick Gallucci, who retired from public education after leading the charter school since its opening in August 2015.