CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Due to a “significant health issue” in his family West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Steve Paine says he will retire effective June 30, 2020, or sooner if a suitable replacement is found. Paine says he also plans to spend more time with his children and grandchild.
“After months of consideration and heartfelt discussion with my family, I have decided to retire my position as the State Superintendent of West Virginia.” Paine said, “It has been an honor and my privilege to serve this state, the Governor, and the students of West Virginia. Unfortunately, a member of my family is facing a health crisis and I want to be fully present for my family. I have grown children, one grandchild who I adore, and hopes for more grandchildren in the future. It is time for me to dedicate myself to spending time with my family.”
Paine began work with the West Virginia Department of Education in 2003 as deputy state superintendent of schools after serving in Morgan County as the superintendent of schools there. Paine is West Virginia’s 31st Superintendent of Schools. He returned to that position in March 2017, after previously serving in the same capacity from 2005-2011. Under his leadership, West Virginia has been nationally recognized for its early childhood programs, child nutrition efforts, graduation rates and career technical education programs.
“It is with regret that I accept Dr. Paine’s resignation,” said State Board of Education President Dave Perry. “Dr. Paine has provided impeccable leadership to the state’s education system and his leadership will be deeply missed. Under his direction, the department has implemented an aggressive plan to improve mathematics achievement, enhance curriculum, establish an accountability system, create a system to develop principal leadership and taken bold steps to address the social emotional needs of students.”
The State Board of Education is searching for a candidate to continue Paine’s vision.