In the wake of the successful 1994 bond issue to fund a second high school, Lawrence administrators had focused on Joe Snyder, a principal at Turner High School in Kansas City, Kan., to lead the new school.

“His academic credentials are impeccable. What I wanted for that school was a solid academic foundation. He was the right foundation,” said Lawrence Superintendent Randy Weseman, an assistant superintendent at the time.

Snyder, Free State High School’s first and only principal, will retire at the end of the school year, Weseman announced late Wednesday afternoon.

Snyder has spent 17 years with Lawrence public schools, but he is perhaps best-known for being hired to open the city’s second high school. Free State, 4700 Overland Drive, opened Aug. 21, 1997.

“My gratitude goes out to the Free State faculty and staff for what they do for the students and the community,” Snyder said in a statement. “Free State High School is a very good school and one that I am proud of; the foundation is laid for years of success to come.”

He could not be reached for additional comment.

This is Snyder’s 12th year as Free State’s principal because he spent a full year planning the school’s opening. Before leading Turner, he also had served as the Lawrence district’s mathematics coordinator and had been a principal in Colorado and Kansas City, Mo.

Students and teachers said Snyder is known for his professional manner.

“Having him as a role model and somebody who pushed for academics has really helped the academics at Free State,” said student body President Erin Robinson, a senior.

Those who have worked with Snyder said he supports students and teachers both in academics and activities.

“He’s an amazing advocate for us and does a tremendous job at supporting us at all times,” said Jason Pendleton, a history and government teacher and head Free State soccer coach for nine years.

They also said Snyder’s work ethic sets an example because he is known to come into work early in the morning and leave late in the day.

“He’s very devoted to the school and is just one of the hardest workers. Nobody puts in more hours or time than he does,” said Pam Bushouse, a retired Free State choral director.

Weseman said Snyder also helped manage a level of respect between Free State and Lawrence High School.

The school district will immediately begin a principal search, and administrators plan to involve faculty, parents and students in the process, Weseman said.