The end of an era for the Polk School District was announced during the community input session Tuesday night.

Superintendent Marvin Williams announced his intention to retire as superintendent and read a letter of resignation to the school board effective Nov. 30, 2012.

Williams, who has been an employee of the Polk School District for 32 years, said it was a tough decision but there was no doubt it was time for him to retire.

"I will continue to serve as superintendent until November 30, and I want the students to know I am excited about the upcoming year and some of the opportunities that are coming," Williams said

Williams has been the superintendent since May of 2007.

Chairman Chuck Thaxton thanked Williams for his service and opened the table for discussion about the replacement process.

"Finding a new superintendent is our decision," Thaxton said. "Marvin's not here to replace himself and would like to stay out of the process as much as possible."

Board member Dan Forsyth said he had been on the board during previous times when they had to find a new superintendent. He said one option was to approach the Georgia School Board Association for help and another was to create a committee on the board to search for candidates.

Several other options were suggested, including waiting until the new board is seated in January to replace Williams.

No official decision was made on the replacement process during the meeting. A regular session meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 14 at 6:30 p.m.