Santa Fe Superintendent Derek Lark has announced his plans to retire after almost three decades of work in education.

Lark’s announcement came during the meeting of Board of Education on Wednesday, September 17. The board plans to begin the search for the next superintendent on September 22, hoping to have an offer for the right candidate by the end of October. Lark intends to finish out the 2025-2026 school year.

Lark has worked in education for 29 years, spending 19 with Marshall Public Schools and the past ten with Santa Fe. Lark says he is retiring to spend more time with family.

 

Lark spoke highly about the Santa Fe School District and is excited for its future.

 

Lark’s last day will be June 30, 2026.