Susan Rothermich waits to speak at a Town Meeting. FILE PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Susan Rothermich, the School Department’s assistant superintendent for finance and operations, is retiring at the end of the school year, prompting a search for her successor, the superintendent announced Friday.

In an email to the Independent, Superintendent Evan Bishop reflected on Rothermich’s contributions to the district since she arrived in 2017, particularly during the challenges of the pandemic and a tightening financial landscape.

“Susan’s impact on Hopkinton Public Schools has been both significant and lasting,” he stated. “Over the course of her tenure, she has served the district with exceptional professionalism, deep institutional knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to strong fiscal stewardship. From her early work in the business office through her leadership as Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations, Susan has played a central role in maintaining and strengthening the district’s reputation for sound financial management.”

While Bishop only has worked alongside Rothermich as superintendent this school year, the former Hopkinton High School principal said he “learned a great deal” from her, calling her “as knowledgeable as they come in the areas of school finance and operations.”

“The district has benefited tremendously from her leadership, particularly in navigating complex and challenging budgets during the COVID years while continuing to prioritize student needs,” he stated. “She has also been instrumental in advancing major capital projects, including the Marathon School and the ongoing Charleswood Elementary School construction, helping ensure these investments position the district well for the future.”

The district has begun a search for Rothermich’s successor. The posting will be open until early March, with interviews taking place shortly thereafter, Bishop noted.

“While Susan’s retirement marks the end of an era, her work has positioned Hopkinton well for a smooth transition and continued success,” he added. “[W]e are grateful for her years of dedicated service and the strong foundation she leaves behind.”

He added: “We wish her the very best in this next chapter and thank her for the lasting impact she has made on the Hopkinton community.”