The principal of Mays High School announced before the winter break that this school year would be his last as leader.

Richard Fowler was hired as principal in 2014.

In a letter to the school community, Fowler shared the news of his departure with "mixed emotions" but said he "made the decision that this will be my last year."

“Over the past five phenomenal years, we have experienced much success academically, culturally, athletically and with fine arts. We have also had moments that tested our will, spirit and resolve. Through it all we have done it together as would any good family, and that I will cherish most.”

Fowler did not specify what he will do next but said “the time has come for me to move on to new endeavors and new experiences.”

He said he will work through the remainder of the school year.

Mays’ enrollment has fallen over the last few years, from a recent high of 1,742 students in the fall of 2015 to 1,333 in the fall of 2018, according to numbers from the Georgia Department of Education.

Last summer, some parents raised concern about Mays, including what they said were problems with low academic standards and teacher morale and poor communication.

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