Boise School District Superintendent Coby Dennis announced during Monday’s regular monthly school board meeting that he intends to retire, effective June 30.

Trustees followed Dennis’ news by voting 7-0 to interview Deputy Superintendent Lisa Roberts to take the leadership role at a special board meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 17 at 5:30 p.m. The interview will occur in executive session following the start of the special meeting. The meeting will be open to the public, with an opportunity for comment prior to the interview. Boise has traditionally promoted within when filling leadership positions.

Dennis has worked in the Boise School District — Idaho’s second largest district — since 1991. He has served as superintendent, deputy superintendent, area director (Timberline High and Capital High), junior high principal (Les Bois), assistant principal (Capital, Borah, and North Junior High) and secondary teacher (Borah and North).

Roberts has served the students and families of the Boise School District for 31 years as a classroom teacher, elementary school principal, administrator of student programs, Borah area director and, for the last five years, as deputy superintendent. Roberts has also served on the district’s negotiations team for 18 years. Roberts also is on the Board of Directors for the Women’s and Children Alliance and on St. Luke’s Community Health Board.

On Monday, Dennis expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the district and praised the hard work and dedication of the staff, students and families.

“For almost a half century, there have been two things in my life that have consistently brought me joy – my family and the Boise School District. There are so many people to thank and please know that you have all had a profound effect on me and my family,” said Dennis. “I know that this organization is in great shape and that we have talented and caring folks in place who will continue to deliver on the expectation of a high-quality educational experience for the students and families of Boise.”

Board members had high praise for Dennis’ tenure as superintendent.

“We congratulate superintendent Dennis on his upcoming and well-deserved retirement,” said Boise School Board President Dave Wagers. “Superintendent Dennis and his administrative team have made significant contributions to our District, implementing innovative programs and initiatives that have positively impacted our community’s students and staff alike. We are grateful for his leadership and wish him a healthy and happy retirement.”