Philip Lanoue is resigning effective Mar. 1 after more than seven years as Clarke County School District superintendent, he announced after a school board meeting tonight.

Lanoue's statement did not give any specifics on why he is leaving or his next move, saying only that he plans to "pursue new opportunities."

It is certainly with mixed emotions that I tender my resignation effective March 1, 2017. During my time here, it has been my honor to lead the Clarke County School District, which is a wonderful and vibrant school community composed of talented support staff, teachers and leaders. These individuals care deeply about our students and work tirelessly to ensure they receive the best educational experience. I do not believe that our students can get a better education anywhere else than here in Clarke County. 

While timing of any departure is difficult, I anticipate that with this schedule, the Board will be afforded a time window that will allow an effective process to select the next superintendent, as well as prepare for that transition. This is an innovative district that I know will attract outstanding leaders for your consideration. Please know that I will continue to lead and support the operations of the district and the many instructional innovations in process – thus ensuring a smooth transition.

After 39 years in public education, my plan in moving forward is to take time with my family and explore my many passions about educating children in America. This community is tremendous and has provided me with opportunities to do some of the most exciting work in my career, and I am greatly appreciative and thankful for the opportunity given to me. 

Thank you for the support and for all that you have accomplished for the children of Clarke County. 

The 2015 National Superintendent of the Year was poised to be named superintendent of the much larger Fulton County system last February, but withdrew from consideration after news of a sexual assault at Cedar Shoals High School a month earlier that was not reported to students, teachers or parents rocked the community.

Nevertheless, the Board of Education recently gave him a vote of confidence by renewing his contract through the 2018-19 school year.

The BOE has not announced a process or timeline for naming Lanoue's replacement.