At noon on April 9, 2020 Superintendent Mark Miles announced to the Rockwood community his plans to retire from his position as Rockwood Superintendent effective June 30, 2021.

On July 1, 2019 Miles began his first contract and, as announced during the Feb. 20, 2020 School Board meeting, he accepted an extension in his contract that was set to expire on June 30, 2023. The most recent extension Miles accepted was set to expire on June 30, 2024.

In an announcement on the Rockwood website regarding the most recent extension Rockwood School Board President Loralee Mondl said, “This has certainly been a challenging year for school districts across the country. Dr. Miles has led with grace and compassion through some difficult decisions that no superintendent has been faced with prior to this year. He has kept students and their education, as well as the safety of students, staff and families, as his focus and we are confident in his ability to lead our District moving forward.”

The Board has announced it will begin a search for an interim superintendent for the next school year immediately.

“At this point, the Board is going to meet again on April 15 to discuss their next movement,” Executive Director of Communications Mary Lapak said.

In an email to the Rockwood community, Miles said, “This is a bittersweet transition as my 26-year career in education comes to its conclusion. There are so many students, colleagues, parents, community members, and Board of Education members who have provided support, encouragement, and inspiration. I shall be forever grateful for the opportunity to serve as a teacher, principal, district office administrator, and superintendent. I am thankful for my time in the Rockwood School District. It is truly a special place with remarkable people providing exceptional opportunities for our students. Much work remains for the remainder of the school year, and I shall continue to work diligently for you, our students, parents, and community as we strive to fulfill the goals and objectives of The Way Forward as well as the mission of the Rockwood School District by doing whatever it takes to ensure all students realize their potential.”

*Editor’s Note: The Lancer Feed will continue to follow this breaking news story, check back for updates.