Urbana School Superintendent to Retire

Urbana school superintendent Preston Williams has announced plans that he is retiring.

At a special board meeting Tuesday night, Williams will announce he is stepping down at the end of the 2012-2013 school year.

According to a statement, School Board President John Dimit said the district is 'greatly saddened yet challenged' by this announcement.

Williams has spent 27 years with the district, which includes time as a coach, teacher, and dean. He has been the leader of the District 116 for the last five years.

Dimit said the transition comes way too soon, but he noted that the board respects Preston's decision as he and his family enter into a new phase of their lives.

"The professionalism, leadership, and enthusiasm Preston has brought to the Superintendent's office will be greatly missed," Dimit said.

Tuesday night's board agenda not only includes an announcement by Williams, but also a vote to appoint a new superintendent. Dimit said the board will announce how it plans to move forward with the next phase of district leadership. He said the 18-month notice gives District 116 ample opportunity to prepare for new leadership.

Tuesday's special board meeting starts at 8:15 Tuesday night at the Jean F. Burkholder Administrative Service Center.

(Photo courtesy of District 116 schools)