Plano ISD's Superintendent of Schools Richard Matkin announced his retirement to the Board of Trustees Oct. 7 after serving in his role since spring 2012.

The 40-year veteran as a career public school educator and administrator will retire effective Jan. 30. Matkin served in a variety of areas for Plano ISD including associate superintendent for business services for 11 years. As chief financial officer, Matkin managed a budget of about half a billion dollars and implemented four bond referendums, three of which were passed throughout his tenure. Under Matkin's financial leadership, PISD completed $1.2 billion in capital improvements as well as $163 million in technology initiatives.

Throughout Matkin's years of service the district also built 11 new schools, two employee childcare centers, a stadium, staff development center and completed 61 renovations and expansions. In 2013, the district launched three academy programs: Academy High School, IB World School and Health Sciences Academy.

In a PISD district statement, Matkin stated that his retirement is to ensure more time spent with his family.

"It was a privilege to serve Plano ISD in the role of superintendent for three years," Matkin said. "I'm very proud of the collective spirit and teamwork among our board and senior staff. They are well-poised to take the district into the future while remaining focused on supporting excellence in education."