A long-time local administrator is saying his final goodbyes this week. West Central Valley’s outgoing Superintendent Dr. David Arnold will officially retire effective June 30th. Arnold, who has served as the District’s superintendent for the last 13 years is ready for the next phase of his life’s journey.

He tells Raccoon Valley Radio that unlike some superintendents, he will not have an active role in any capacity at West Central Valley going forward. “When you leave a district, I think you need to leave the district and let the new leadership take over, do their job, (and) let them have their freedom without that undue pressure. Not that I’m important, because I’m not. I just go by the wayside and get on with life.”

In addition to retiring as superintendent, Arnold also relinquishes his duties as Dexter Elementary Principal to Drew Stonewall. Arnold gave some advice to Stonewall as he begins his tenure in Dexter. “You learn a lot by listening to the staff, watching the kids, being open to the parents. I’ve shared that with him too. It’s just a good transition for Drew, he’ll do a great job.”

Lance Ridgely will officially assume the role of the District’s next superintendent on Monday. To hear more on Arnold’s retirement, listen to today’s Let’s Talk Guthrie County program.