By Katie Knapp Schubert
Omaha, NE – Omaha Public Schools Superintendent Dr. John Mackiel is retiring.
Mackiel announced at Monday night's board meeting he's ending his 39-year career with OPS as of August 2012. The announcement comes on OPS' first day of school.
In a statement, Mackiel says "It is my hope and belief that you are as proud as I am of our wonderful students, their families, our great teachers, excellent staff and outstanding administrators. It is the strong collaboration of all stakeholders which makes a premiere school and community environment."
Mackiel says the decision was "enormously difficult" and he's announcing his retirement now "to ensure a smooth transition to new superintendency for the School District of Omaha."
Mackiel had no further comments after Monday's board meeting.