The Southern Door School Board is on the search for a new superintendent for the second time since 2021 after Chris Peterson resigned from the position on Thursday. Peterson was placed on administrative leave following a special school board meeting held in mid-March.

The school board has met several times since then with Southern Door School Board President Penny Price saying in early April that the board “remains committed to doing what is best for the District.” Business manager Jason Melotte has filled in Peterson’s absence during that time, which has included the ongoing work with the district’s referendum projects and a threat that was resolved in early May. Melotte’s contract with the district was amended last month to compensate Melotte for the extra duties he has taken on as a result. In a statement from the district on Friday, Peterson called it a great privilege to serve as the superintendent of Southern Door, expressing his confidence that “the great work of this district and the progress that will be made will continue." School Board Penny Price thanked Peterson for his commitment to the students and families of the district, adding that they are committed to ensuring a seamless transition to the next superintendent." Peterson’s resignation is effective June 30th.

There was no update on the contract status of Southern Door Athletic Director Mark Jonas after Thursday’s special meeting. At a school board's regularly scheduled meeting in May, a discussion over his contract in closed session was laid over until a future meeting by a unanimous vote. Jonas filed a restraining order against the district in late April, but the case was dismissed in Door County Circuit Court on Wednesday.