Matt Friedman

ADAMS TWP — An assistant superintendent who has spent more than six years at the Mars School District will leave at the end of next month.

The school board Tuesday night approved the resignation of Matt Friedman, the assistant superintendent of secondary education since 2009.

Friedman has accepted the position of chief academic officer at the Downingtown School District near Philadelphia. He will start on May 2.

“I feel like I’ve left this place a little better than when I came,” Friedman said. “I think that’s the hope of any person in any profession.”

Friedman said his new school district educates 13,000 students and employs 900 teachers. He said the district is nationally recognized and among the top 15 districts of the 500 in the state.

By comparison, Mars has more than 3,000 students.

“It’s a great opportunity that I couldn’t pass up, and I’m looking forward to a new challenge in my career,” Friedman said.

While at Mars, he said he is most proud of being involved with increased curriculum offerings, professional development, and technology improvements in all five buildings.

“I’m proud to be part of the collective that helped move things forward,” Friedman said. “It’s with mixed emotions that I leave here. I have great memories.”

The tight-knit community is the main thing Friedman will miss about Mars, but he said he has made lifelong friends during his time here.

“The relationships you build will carry on beyond working here, so that’s good to know,” he said.

School board President Dayle Ferguson congratulated Friedman on his new position.

“On behalf of the board, I thank you for your committed service to the Mars Area School District for the past 6½ years,” Ferguson said. “We wish you much success with the next step in your career and hope that you and your family find much happiness in your new home and community.”