North Platte Public Schools Superintendent Marty Bassett has resigned.

In a news release Thursday afternoon, North Platte Public Schools Board of Education President, Kathy Phares, said the Board will vote to formally accept Bassett’s resignation at the next regular board meeting.

The Board plans to fill the position with an Interim Superintendent for the 2014-2015 school year, saying they will work diligently to find the right person.

According to Phares, the Board will begin the search for a full-time superintendent in the coming months.

“Hiring a superintendent is one of the most important endeavors a board must face,” Phares said.

“The task will be approached with fervent attention to each vital detail necessary to ensure a rewarding and successful search,” Phares added.

The resignation comes less than a week after a grueling hearing regarding Jefferson Elementary physical education teacher, Mark Woodhead.  Woodhead stood accused of dragging a third-grader to a timeout room and causing rug burns to the boy’s back.

Bassett had recommended that the Board of Education terminate Woodhead’s contract due to the incident.

However, after 15 hours of testimony and deliberation, the Board voted 4-2 to allow Woodhead to keep his job.

Hundreds packed into the North Platte High School Performing Arts Center to show their support for Woodhead, and cheered loudly when the vote was cast.

Bassett’s first full year with the NPPS was the 2012-2013 school year.  His contract was to run through June 30, 2015.

Phares said the Board is grateful for Bassett’s service to the NPPS and wish him well in his future endeavors.

The reason for Bassett’s resignation was not given.