The Plano ISD Board of Trustees has accepted the retirement announcement of Superintendent of Schools Dr. Doug Otto. Dr. Otto has led the 55,000-student Plano Independent School District since 1995 overseeing its rapid growth in student enrollment. His retirement will be effective January 31, 2012.

“There is no optimal time to say goodbye to a district and staff for whom I have such deep respect and admiration,” Dr. Otto said.  “I thank the Plano ISD community from the bottom of my heart for 17 wonderful years.”

Plano ISD School Board President Tammy Richards extended her gratitude on behalf of the school board to Dr. Otto for his service.

“The Plano ISD hallmark of excellence has been enriched by his vision, educational philosophies, and respect for school children,” Richards said. “The incredible administrators, principals, teachers, and staff he has hired and mentored will be his greatest legacy as students continue to be served in the years to come.”