County superintendent to retire

The Orange County education superintendent on Thursday announced his intent to retire at the end of the year.

Superintendent of Schools William M. Habermehl will retire June 29 after 11 years on the job, he told the Orange County Board of Education at its meeting, according to a new release.

“It has been a great honor and privilege to have served as superintendent of this exceptional county,” Habermehl said, according to the release. “I have had the opportunity in this position to work with outstanding staff, educators, board members, parents and community members who are doing incredible work for the students of Orange County.

“I will miss everyone very much, but I know that I am leaving this office in good hands, and I am confident that our youngest citizens will continue to receive world-class educational services.”

Habermehl was appointed to the position in April 2001 and kept the seat through election in 2002, 2006 and 2010.

He has worked in public education for 45 years as a director, assistant superintendent and associate superintendent for the county and as an administrator at Fullerton Joint Union High School District. His career started as a science teacher and football coach in the Garden Grove Unified School District.

— Britney Barnes

Twitter: @britneyjbarnes