It came as a bit of a shock for most who received the email sent out at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday evening: Superintendent of Region 4 Schools Dr. Ruth Levy will retiring from her post, effective June 30, 2019.

In her letter, Levy said she will be “graduating” with the class she started her position with 13 years ago.

“I am very proud of the progress and growth our district has achieved. The positive relationships among staff, families, students and our communities have been outstanding for our school system,” Levy said. “I have been blessed and fortunate to serve the children and this district.”

Levy joined the Region 4 administration in 2006 as assistant superintendent and was moved to the superintendent role in 2009 following the resignation of former superintendent Kim Caron.

Levy’s lengthy tenure in the district was notable as the district, which has five boards rather than the single board of education with which most superintendents work, has been colloquially described as a “superintendent eater.”

Levy was not immediately available for comment. This story will be updated.