The Providence School Board has named an education consultant who has worked closely with the district as interim school superintendent.

The board announced Monday night that Christopher Ndeki Maher, president of Mass Insight Education, will be taking on the post when Susan Lusi leaves at the end of the school year.

His company has worked with the Providence district to increase student achievement, and recently completed an audit that called for a transformation of the central administration.

Mayor Jorge Elorza called Maher "a proven leader who shares my vision" for academic achievement and community engagement.

School Board President Keith Oliveira said the board and the mayor feel Maher's familiarity with the district and key personnel will make a seamless transition.