NORTH MAYFAIR — With a "heavy heart and mixed emotions," La Shawn Ray said he is resigning as principal of Palmer Elementary.
In a note to the school's community, posted to Palmer's website, Ray said he had accepted a job as a principal with Minneapolis Public Schools.
"The biggest reason for the move is that Minnesota is home for my wife and three small children" who "never quite adjusted to life in Chicago," said Ray, who is a Chicago native.
During Ray's three-year tenure at Palmer, 5051 N. Kenneth Ave., the school climbed to a Level 1 "high performance" ranking.
He cited gains made across the board, both in students' reading and math scores, as well as attendance rates.
"Our students are achieving at high levels," Ray said. "I could go on and on with things to be proud of."
Ray's final day at Palmer's helm will be June 30. The Local School Council will be charged with hiring his replacement.
Representatives from Palmer's LSC did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The next LSC meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday at the school.
Principals have also recently resigned at Edison Park Elementary and Foreman High School.
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