State Superintendent Dr. Joseph Morton has announced his retirement.

Morton told the State Department of Education Executive Council today that he will retire, effective Wednesday, August 31, 2011, concluding seven and a half years as Alabama’s State Superintendent and 42 years in education overall.

A lifelong educator, Morton has experienced the entire spectrum of educational duties during his expansive and impressive career. He began his trek in education as a school teacher in Jefferson County and ascended rapidly to become the youngest superintendent in Alabama’s history as the 27-year-old superintendent of the Sumter County school system. He later served as superintendent of Sylacauga City school system for more than 17 years. In 1995 Morton accepted the position of Deputy State Superintendent under State Superintendent Ed Richardson. In 2004, following Richardson’s departure, the Alabama State Board of Education voted unanimously to name Morton as Alabama’s 39th State Superintendent of Education.

Of his retirement, Morton said there is never a perfect time to leave something you are so passionate about, but he feels now is a good time to allow the State Board to move forward with the business of public education, including the search for his successor. He said no extenuating circumstances factored into his decision to retire at this time other than an inner voice that would not retreat. He said it kept saying, “Joe, it is the right time for the state and for you.” Morton said he believes God led him to his job and he believes God is that inner voice.

“Education is what I’ve dedicated my entire life to – it’s all I know, so this will be an adjustment for me. But the time is right now. After consulting with my family I have decided to step aside. I feel I have come full-circle in my career. I’ve been incredibly blessed to serve the students, educators, and the public of Alabama and I am proud of the work that has been done on their behalf,” Morton said. “Despite the fact that our state faces unprecedented challenges, I am comforted by the fact that Alabama has made outstanding gains in educational progress in recent years. I am also reassured knowing I leave the students of this state in very competent hands of an incredible staff at the State Department of Education and a State Board of Education fully dedicated to the academic achievement of Alabama’s students.”

(Information Source: State Board of Education)