HOWARD — Jim Peterson didn’t want to be a lame duck superintendent.

In his year of being an intermediate superintendent at East Knox Local Schools, he’s been anything but.

Peterson, along with family, teachers and staff, celebrated his retirement Thursday at East Knox Elementary.

Wearing an EK ball cap, Peterson walked into the surprised retirement party with an ear to ear grin.

After nearly 50 years of working in public education, Peterson is retiring at East Knox — an interim superintendent position he took last June after former superintendent Steve Larcomb resigned.

Before East Knox, Peterson was the superintendent at Fredericktown Local Schools before current superintendent Gary Chapman was hired in 2022.

In half a century, Peterson has seen the scope of education expand, either with mental health, tackling food insecurity or specialized education programs.

One of Peterson’s goals was to help boost test scores district-wide. Through statewide test scores haven’t been released, Peterson says he’s seen an increased focused on testing and does expect improvements.

In those improvements, Peterson says it’s a team effort with staff and teachers.

Peterson’s last day in July 31.

Also in his retirement, Peterson plans on taking a vacation with his wife of 48 years and spending valuable time with his six grandchildren, he said.

“This could be my last call to the mound,” Peterson said. “I’ve enjoyed it though.”