After nearly four years as superintendent of Columbia Public Schools, Brian Yearwood is retiring from the role, effective Dec. 31, in order to spend more time with his family in Texas. However, he has been transitioning out of the role since late last month.

Former district Superintendent Chris Belcher has been named as interim for the remainder of the school year. He oversaw the district from 2009 to 2014.

The district’s announcement indicated that the quality of public education in Columbia will continue under Belcher. “With the support of Dr. Belcher and our talented staff and our parents and students, we are confident in our ability to maintain the high standards our community expects and deserves,” the announcement said.