After 34 years in public education, superintendent Jim Hinson will retire at the end of the school year, he announced in a statement Wednesday.

Hinson took over as Shawnee Mission’s superintendent in 2013, after spending 11 years as superintendent of the Independence Public School District.

In his statement, Hinson said that he wanted to “spend more time with family, and pursue other lifelong goals” after he retires.

“I am extremely thankful for the opportunity to have worked with each member of the team,” Hinson said in his statement. “I am proud of the district and what it is today; and feel confident that the dedicated board members and talented leadership team will continue to ensure that Shawnee Mission remains one of the very best school districts.”

Board of Education President Sara Goodburn also released a statement regarding Hinson’s retirement. She said that, during his time as superintendent, Hinson developed plans to enhance academics, technology, safety, security and communication.

“The district greatly benefitted from his impressive leadership and expertise in developing the 2015 no-mill-increase bond issue, allowing us to build new facilities,” Goodburn said in her statement. “We wish him well as he begins this new chapter of his life.”

It is currently unknown who will replace Hinson as superintendent. The district plans to create a leadership transition plan that would include naming an interim superintendent.

“In the short term, I’m just curious what the new direction will be,” English department head Travis Gatewood said. “It’s just about making sure we get the right person to do the job.”

Hinson’s retirement will take effect June 30, pending approval from the school board at the April 24 meeting, at which they will also appoint an interim superintendent.