ST. CHARLES COUNTY, Mo.—Francis Howell School District (FHSD) Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Roumpos is leaving the school district in St. Charles County at the end of the school year. He is heading to lead the Kirkwood School District, according to the school board.

Roumpus was one seven candidates for the post, including three who were local, the board said Monday. He's served as a teacher or administrator in the region at Francis Howell, Mehlville, Ritenour and St. Louis Public schools.

In a video message sent to FHSD families Monday, Roumpos says he asked the school board to release him from his contract next year. He moved to St. Charles County five years ago when he took the job.

“My family made a home here in Cottleville, and we have no plans to move,” he said in the video. “We will remain a part of this community, and our children will continue to attend our top-rated Francis Howell schools. Come next July, I will no longer be your leader, but I will be an engaged parent, community member and supporter.”

Roumpos joined the district in 2020 during the height of COID and served two years as deputy superintendent before being named the interim superintendent in 2022. He started his role as superintendent in July 2023. 

FHSH School Board President Adam Bertrand said he and the board are grateful for Roumpos' many contributions during his time with the district. 

“Dr. Roumpos has made an overwhelmingly positive impact during his time at Francis Howell. His ability to bring people together, concentrate effort on key priorities, and champion excellence for all students has helped take our District to a new level, and will continue over the next six months as we search for our next leader," said Bertrand. 

The district is working with a firm to begin a nationwide search for the next superintendent.