Newton County School System Superintendent Gary Mathews announced his retirement, effective June 30.

"As my twin grandsons, Luke and Ethan, consume much of my attention these days, and as my 83-year-old father and 87-year-old mother-in-law continue to age, it is time for me to reprioritize. Simply put, at age 60 in May, and after 38 years in public education inclusive of my 21 years in the superintendency, I want to spent much more time with loved ones, including my five grown children," said Mathews in a press release.

"...Academically, we have our public schools positioned to continue the upward achievement of our students as seen over the past three years... While challenges such as graduation rate persist, as the old saying foes, we're not where we want to be, but we're not where we were just a while ago. That's good news for our students, staff and community thanks to the dedication and labor of many."

Mathews has served as superintendent since July 1, 2010, following the retirement of Steve Whatley.