Hood Canal schools superintendent resigns

Less than a year after he was hired, the Hood Canal School Board has accepted the resignation of Superintendent Jose-de-Jesus Melendez.

The district announced the decision Monday in a news release and legal notice.

"He will complete the remainder of his contract on administrative leave," Susan Vining, the district's executive assistant wrote in the news release. "We appreciate his service to the district and wish him well."

Vining added, "There is still work to be done, children to teach and goals to be realized. Our board will ensure that our school administrators, staff, families and students are supported during this transition, as we seek a new superintendent."

Edie Reclusado, the chair of the Hood Canal School Board, told the Journal that Melendez requested that his resignation be accepted so he could rejoin his wife living in Oregon. The board was happy with his performance, she said.

Melendez was hired last summer to replace Nikki Grubbs, who was hired as assistant superintendent in the North Thurston School District. His first day was July 1. Melendez has been a teacher, principal, program director and superintendent in California, Colorado, Oregon and Washington.

The district has about 300 students in prekindergarten through the eighth grade.