SMSD Deputy Superintendent Kenny Southwick announced his retirement at the Jan. 31 board of education meeting.

Southwick has been with the district for five years, serving as interim superintendent during the 2017-18 school year.

“This year’s gone great, and my work continues with the staff, with the board and with Dr. Fulton to be a great experience for me,” Southwick said during his announcement. “But moving forward, I really believe it is time for me to move to the next phase of my life.”

Southwick’s retirement will be effective July 4.

“This is a great school district,” Southwick said at the meeting. “I’ve never seen any place like this.”

Superintendent Michael Fulton and the board of education members thanked Southwick for his time in SMSD.

“I want to thank you for everything you’ve done for the children in this district,” Fulton said in response to Southwick’s announcement. “And Shawnee Mission is better because of your work, so thank you for that. And we’re going to miss you.”