CADIZ — Although it has been in the works for some time now, Harrison Hills City School District Superintendent Dana Snider made it official during Thursday’s board of education meeting when she announced her retirement.

Her last day is slated for Aug. 1.

Board President D.J. Watson said the board unanimously approved Snider’s request.

“The board is very happy to celebrate and recognize the long and decorated career of Mrs. Snider. Her compassion and love for the children of our district come second to none and her impact will not soon be forgotten by many in the public education industry,” he said.

“Mrs. Snider guided our district through the most exciting times the county has ever witnessed in terms of education. Our community as well as Mrs. Snider herself should remain very proud of the legacy that she is leaving behind. On behalf of the board of education, a resounding congratulations is in order.”

Snider said the news of her retirement was not a surprise to the school board or administration. She said it has been planned for the last several years since signing her previous contract in 2016.

“I got my contract six years ago and I knew I was going to retire this year,” she said.

Snider has filled the position of superintendent for the last nine years, and her administration has been able to accomplish many things.

“It’s been a remarkable time for me at Harrison. I was able to be a part of a team that helped pass a levy, build a new school, new baseball field, new softball field, new football field and now, a new press box. So it’s been a marvelous time at Harrison. I’m very thankful for everybody there and the support that my whole team has received from the community, the staff and the students,” she said.

Though she has loved her job, Snider said she is looking forward to beginning a new chapter with plans to travel the country alongside her husband and spending quality time with her family.

“I’ve always wanted to go to Yellowstone (National Park) so on Sept. 6, my husband and I will be on an eight-day national park tour. I want to see America,” she said, adding that she also plans to visit her grandchildren who reside in Kentucky.

“There’s life after work. I’ve loved my job but I’m also devoted to my husband and family, and I’d like to spend more time with them.”

Duran Morgan will take over as superintendent Aug. 1. He is currently the assistant superintendent. Watson said the board felt Morgan was the most natural choice to fill the position.

“We believe that the future is in great hands with Mr. Morgan, and he will continue the work of Mrs. Snider,” he said.

In other matters, the board approved the sale of the former West Gate Elementary School to the Harrison County Board of Commissioners for $200,000. Though the resolution was signed, Watson said the sale is not yet finalized.

The board will next meet at 6 p.m. July 28 inside the community room of the newly constructed Harrison Central press box. An open house for the press box will be held prior to the meeting from 4-6 p.m.