photo by: Contributed photo; Journal-World file photo

Pictured at left is David Williams, principal of Prairie Park Elementary School, which is shown in the 2017 file photo at right.

David Williams, principal of Prairie Park Elementary School, plans to resign after 18 years at the school, the Lawrence school district announced in a news release Wednesday.

Williams said in the release that his youngest son will graduate from Free State High School this year, and he’d like to find a job closer to his home in Kansas City.

“All in all, it has been a wonderful opportunity that has enriched my life greatly,” Williams said in the release. “I am proud of this school, our students, and the staff.”

Williams joined the district in 2001. His resignation — pending school board approval — is effective June 30, according to the release. The district will immediately begin the search to fill the position.