Howard Lucks, who came to Red Bank Regional around this time last year as superintendent, is leaving the district because of family medical problems, he confirmed today.
He informed the school board Monday night that he will resign from the position as soon as a replacement is hired.
Lucks’ wife, Gayle, has been in poor health for the last couple of years, but “it’s getting worse and worse,” Lucks told redbankgreen.
“It’s been a very difficult year,” he said. “It’s a disappointing situation.”
His wife had recovered from a series of brain surgeries after spending a year in the hospital, but developed back problems lately. Taking care of her and overseeing the school’s operations has become too tough a challenge, he said.
“It’s been difficult doing both jobs,” said Lucks, who lives in Jackson.
His early exit from RBR comes just a year after he replaced Edward Westervelt, who retired after 11 years at the school. Prior to that, Lucks spent 37 years in the New York City school system and served as principal of a high school in Franklin Township.
The school board will begin searching for his replacement immediately, Lucks said.
“I’m here until there’s a replacement,” he said.