HICKORY–Dr. Walter Hart, superintendent of the Hickory Public Schools has announced his retirement, according to a variety of media reports. 

     He will be leaving the system at the end of July. Dr. Hart made the announcement at a recent Board of Education meeting and then told his cabinet members and principals in another meeting.

     In a statement released to the media, Dr. Hart said following thoughtful and prayerful reflection, he had decided to retire at the end of July. He said it is not an easy decision as he has loved three decades of service in the NC public schools, the highlight of which has been serving as superintendent to the Hickory Public Schools. 

     Dr. Hart said he is going to accept a position at Winthrop University as a professor and coordinator of a new, sixth year advanced degree program in their educational leadership department.  He said in the statement he will be engaged in the important work of training the next generation of school leaders.  

    Hart has been superintendent in Hickory since November 1, 2011, and has served on a couple of different NCHSAA committees. Prior to going to Hickory, he served the Rowan-Salisbury school system.