Superintendent Mike Wartes announced his intent to retire to the school board Monday evening. Wartes has worked for Canyon ISD (CISD) for 29 years, the last 10 as Superintendent. Wartes’ resignation becomes official Aug. 31.

“This early retirement announcement gives our Board of Trustees ample time to search for and select a highly qualified individual to lead the district,” Wartes said in his letter to CISD faculty.

Wartes joined the district as a head football coach and Athletic Director for Canyon High School in 1986. In 2004, he became Interim Superintendent of CISD.

“I have been in the district long enough to see Arden Road, Lakeview, Crestview, Westover Park Junior High, Randall High School, Greenways, Hillside, City View, Canyon High School and Midway Alternative High School constructed,” Wartes said.

After his retirement, Wartes said he plans to spend more time with his children and grandchildren, and it will give him time to get involved with projects he is interested in. While it will give him time for more of his interests, he said he will miss the people.

“What I will miss most is the daily connection with great individuals and leaders,” Wartes said. “I have enjoyed the direct contact with campus principals and central office individual.”

Randall High Principal Steve Williams has worked side-by-side with Wartes for many of these years.

“(Wartes) is a genuine person, one who always listened to Randall’s needs,” Williams said.

Williams said the district will change tremendously with a new superintendent, especially over time.

“Philosophy and focus will be the biggest changes,” Williams said.