District officials have narrowed the number of candidates for the principal position at Anthony Wayne Middle School to two.

Officials met with four individuals during the first round of interviews, which concluded early this week; 19 people applied for the position, said Superintendent Ray Gonzalez.

The second round of interviews will be conducted next week, Gonzalez said.

The position is available because former principal Diane Pandolfi was appointed to be the district’s newest director of elementary education. The Board of Education approved the appointment Feb.16.

In her new position, Pandolfi will direct, develop, and coordinate the curriculum in the district’s elementary grades, including summer programs. Pandolfi annual salary is $151,500.

Michael Ben-David is the acting principal of Anthony Wayne. He could not be reached for comment, but states on the principal’s page on the school’s Web site that “our relationships are the bedrock upon which we cultivate a climate/culture of excellence — one in which we are focused on maximizing student growth and achievement.”