Topeka ? State Education Commissioner Andy Tompkins said Tuesday he is retiring from office in June to pursue other education opportunities.

Appointed in 1996, Tompkins is the longest serving education commissioner in state history. His departure comes as the State Board of Education is in the throes of a dispute over the teaching of evolution and the Legislature faces an April 12 deadline to improve school funding.

The 10-member State Board of Education accepted Tompkins’ retirement letter and will begin a search for his replacement immediately.