Hopkinton High School Athletic Director Rich Cormier announced Thursday that he is stepping down at the end of this school year so he can spend more time with his family.

“This last year in particular has been incredibly challenging personally and professionally and I have reached a point where I can’t continue in this role,” Cormier wrote in an email. “Simply put, the demands and responsibilities of this role are preventing me from being the father and husband I want to be for my family. I will be transitioning into a position outside the field of education, and while I am positive that I will miss many aspects of my role as athletic director, I am excited for this new opportunity and challenge.”

In his three years at the school, Cormier helped guide the department through the pandemic. He expressed gratitude and pride for the opportunity to work at HHS and credited the community support for helping to ensure students have “the best experience possible — academically and athletically.”

“I will sincerely miss working with the Hopkinton community, its students and families,” he wrote. “I have learned so much from this experience and I know it will benefit me in my future pursuits.

“This decision is strictly a family one and realizing what I want in life for my family, and unfortunately this position does not go hand in hand with that vision.”

Cormier indicated that he has submitted his resignation but will “continue to work tirelessly to make sure everything is ready to go for the ’22-23 school year and will collaborate with my replacement to ensure a smooth transition.”