By By Adrienne McKenzie
Escambia County High School leader Kyle Ferguson turned in his resignation as principal Thursday.
After many years at ECHS, Ferguson accepted a job at Thomasville High School, but said his leaving does not mean he has a dislike for the Blue Devils.
"I've been at ECHS six years," Ferguson said. "I love the kids here, they've been great to work with. There are some of the best kids in the state of Alabama at ECHS. Me leaving is not a reflection of this school, the Escambia Board of Education or the community, I was simply given an offer I could not refuse. I have to do what is best for myself and my family."
Ferguson said he was not out searching for a position at a different school but that a couple of schools came to talk to him.
"I was approached by three different schools within the past two weeks with lucrative offers and Thomasville was one of them," he said. "I did not look for a new job."
Escambia County Schools superintendent Billy Hines said he hopes Ferguson does well at Thomasville.
"It's a good move for him and we're proud of him," Hines said. "We wish him the best in his endeavors."
The school board will meet Thursday to discuss future ECHS plans.
"We'll press forward," Hines said. "I'll have a board meeting for us the 12th and we'll discuss our next move."
Ferguson is grateful for the support of Atmore residents and he also wishes the new ECHS principal the best of luck.
"I appreciate all of the community support and the support of the Advance and the News," he said. "I wish my successor all the luck in the world and wish for continued success in the school."
Ferguson's resignation will be effective July 20.