By Cindy Kranz
The Cincinnati Enquirer

UNION TWP. - West Clermont Superintendent Michael Ward, the architect of the district's high school redesign, has announced that he will retire Aug. 1.

Ward has led the district of 9,000 students - the largest school district in Clermont County - since 1999.

Health problems in the past year played a part in the 58-year-old superintendent's decision.

"I know it's time for me to go and for someone else to carry on the work. My health is good right now, and I want to spend more time with my wife and family." Ward has four adult children and seven grandchildren.

"The other side of me says, 'I don't want to go. I can't imagine not being a part of this.' I'll struggle with this."

Two years ago, West Clermont became the first suburban district in the nation to convert all its high schools to small schools of focused interest. The district also passed an operating levy March 2.

Those are stressful projects, even for a superintendent in the best of health.

"I had a bad year last year," Ward said of his health. "It does do a little bit of a wake-up call. I think this is too much of a job for a person who's been through what I've been through in the last year. It takes a lot of energy. I don't want to do any less than my best for West Clermont. I don't feel I have the same level of 'go get 'em' for West Clermont."

Though small schools are his most visible accomplishment, he cites literacy programs in the elementary and middle schools as his greatest achievement. He also cited West Clermont's improved image. "I think the place is more highly regarded because of the work we've done in the last decade," Ward said.

Eileen Murphy, principal of Summerside Elementary, has known Ward for nine years.

"Without a doubt, he is a true educational leader and an unbelievable role model," she said. "His hard work and efforts will carry on in West Clermont, even after he retires, which is really the sign of a true leader."

Ward told the district's principals of his decision Thursday.

"Needless to say, I cried when he announced it," Murphy said. "He is irreplaceable. He is one of the most remarkable human beings I have ever had the opportunity to meet in my life. I adore that man. He has a tireless work ethic and the ability to touch the hearts of so many people."

Jeff Burgess, West Clermont school board president, said the board on Tuesday will discuss beginning a search for Ward's replacement. Burgess expects the board will likely seek a permanent replacement for next year instead of an interim superintendent.

"The man is just an incredible individual," he said of Ward. "I would love to keep him forever, but we just can't. He's put his heart and soul into West Clermont."

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E-mail ckranz@enquirer.com