POLAND — Craig Hockenberry, superintendent of the Poland Local School District, will take a medical leave of absence as he battles esophageal cancer, and will retire Aug. 31, according to a letter sent by the board of education Friday.

Hockenberry’s medical leave will begin Dec. 1 so he can “focus on his treatment and recovery.” The letter states that the decision was made after consultation with his family and medical team.

On Saturday, the board met in special session to name Maria Hoffmaster, assistant superintendent and director of curriculum, as acting deputy superintendent effective Dec. 1. She will continue in that role until the board appoints an interim superintendent for the remainder of the school year. The board then will look for a permanent replacement for Hockenberry.

“It has been the greatest honor of my career to serve this District. I am deeply proud of all we have accomplished together, and I remain confident in the strength and resilience of this community. While I step away to focus on my health, I carry with me immense gratitude for your parentship, your trust and the extraordinary work taking place each day in our schools,” Hockenberry stated in a letter addressed to the board, staff, students and the community. “Although my time was short in Poland, I have professional and personal memories that will last a lifetime and friendships that I will cherish forever.”

Hockenberry was hired in May 2021.