Heaton stepping down as Colbert Elem. principal

Heaton, who has been principal at the school for three years, said he wants to work closer to his daughter, who has health issues that sometimes require quick attention.

“Her health is a continuing concern for her mother and me. She and her sister attend high school in an adjoining school district,” wrote Heaton. “An opportunity has presented itself which will allow me to work in the school district they attend. This close proximity will allow me to be at my daughters’ school within five minutes. Having this peace of mind will benefit my entire family.”

The county school board agreed to release Heaton from his contract Tuesday. Interim superintendent Allen McCannon will soon form a committee to seek a new Colbert principal.

“Your children have worked hard and I thank them for that,” wrote Heaton to Colbert parents. “I will miss each and every one of them. I will continue to serve as principal for the remainder of this school year and will be committed 100 percent to Colbert Elementary until my last day this summer..”