Mrs. Debra Hawkins announced her retirement as principal Feb. 1 in an all-staff email. Hawkins has been principal for 11 years, since the school’s opening in 2005.

“I will miss the wonderful experiences every day. But I know that this school has a great culture of success for everyone and will continue to thrive and reach new heights in academics, sports, activities and more with each passing year,” Hawkins said.

The retirement announcement was formalized Wednesday night at the school board meeting and included in the official board recap from Superintendent Mr. Roger Stock, but the district has not provided details yet about the hiring process for Hawkins’ successor.

“The district office human resource department will handle all hiring. Once they have enough applications, they will screen the applications and invite selected individuals to interview for the job. After this process is completed, the district will announce a new principal for next year,” Hawkins said.

Despite rumors of current assistant principals rising to the new position, no decisions have been made yet.

“There will be a complete hiring process. No one gets appointed so to speak. Anyone interested would need to apply,” assistant principal Mrs. Jennifer Hanks said.

Students were surprised to hear news of retirement.

“Since I’m a senior, it’s weird to think of Whitney as anything other than [Hawkins]. I know it won’t affect me since I’ll be leaving, but it will be weird to come back and see someone else in her spot,” Tyler Kim said.

Hawkins is not yet sure what she will be doing after the end of the school year in June.

Hawkins said, “My plans for the future are wide open.”

by OLIVIA GRAHL