Isle of Wight County Schools Superintendent Dr. Michael W. McPherson has announced his plan to retire at the end of his current contract, which expires June 30.

McPherson has been superintendent since 2002. Under his leadership, the division was named Business of the Year by the Isle of Wight County Chamber of Commerce in 2004.

In announcing his retirement, McPherson noted that the division has reached the goals he set when he accepted the position and that he believes now is a good time for change in the division.

“I am thankful to have been able to work with supportive school board members, outstanding educators and community members to improve the educational services for children in Isle of Wight County,” he said.

McPherson counts among the highlights of his tenure increases in student achievement at all levels, implementation of pay increases that place Isle of Wight County teachers and administrators among the highest paid in the region, and increasing areas of shared services with the county.

McPherson intends to devote more time to his family and community involvement during his retirement, he said.