Santa Maria High School Principal Joe Domingues has resigned because of “personal health matters.”
His resignation became effective Friday and follows an extended leave that began in April and included his absence from the class of 2019 graduation ceremony in June.
“It is bittersweet that I am writing to let you know I am resigning my position as principal of Santa Maria High School due to personal health matters,” Domingues wrote in a statement. “Although it has been a challenging, yet successful experience being your principal during the past decade, I feel that this decision is in the best interest for my family and myself.”
District officials thanked Domingues for his service and wished him the best in the future.
More than 10 years ago, Domingues became principal of Santa Maria High, the campus he graduated from in 1993 before joining the U.S. Navy.
“Working with the community, students and staff has been a memorable experience I will not soon forget,” Domingues said. “As with every beginning comes an end; however, as an alumni and Santa Maria High principal, I will always be a Saint. I wish you all the best and thank you for your understanding in this matter.’’
Domingues began teaching at Salinas High School and later became an administrator in the Salinas Union High School District.
Steve Campbell has served as interim principal since the spring and will continue to fill the role, according to Santa Maria Joint Union High School District officials.
In addition to the vacant principal slot, the district also is in the midst of a search for a new superintendent after Mark Richardson retired in June.
John Davis, assistant superintendent of curriculum, was named acting superintendent until a replacement can be hired.
Applications from superintendent candidates will continue to be accepted until 5 p.m. Oct. 11, with a finalist possibly to be chosen in November, according to an official timeline.
— Noozhawk North County editor Janene Scully can be reached at jscully@noozhawk.com. Follow Noozhawk on Twitter: @noozhawk, @NoozhawkNews and @NoozhawkBiz. Connect with Noozhawk on Facebook.