KINGWOOD — Preston County Schools will have a new superintendent when the bell rings in a new school year this fall.
Superintendent Stephen Wotring announced at a Board of Education meeting last month that he would retire effective July 1 . He said the news would not come as a surprise to those on the board.
“I have thought much about the past 40 years I’ve spent as part of the school system. The system has truly been my home away from home and I will be eternally grateful for every single opportunity I have been given to contribute to the system that I love,” Wotring said.
While reading his statement, Wotring was at times near tears and his voice was emotional.
He continued, “My tenure as superintendent has been most rewarding but also most difficult. My time has been filled with two work stoppages and now three years of a pandemic, and I’m tired.”
Wotring said despite his complaining, he remains a man of faith. He quoted a Bible verse from the Book of Esther, saying, “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this.”
“So I hope it has been my time,” Wotring said.
However, it was time to turn over the reins and bring in new leadership for the county.
“I hope that I have prepared the way and established a path to future success for our county,” Wotring said.
He thanked the board for their belief in his ability.
Wotring urged the board to start searching for his replacement so there would be ample time for a smooth transition.
Pam Feathers drew a laugh from the crowd when she asked if the board had to accept the resignation.
Board President Jack Keim asked how the board should go about advertising the position. Wotring said he would provide a job description so it would be posted, then accept the applications and bring those to the board in a work session.
“I think bad as I hate to, we need to move forward with doing whatever we have to do as soon and as quick as possible, so that as you say the new superintendent will have the opportunity to work with you for an extended period of time.”
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