Richard Leyshock will take over as interim superintendent of the Washtenaw Intermediate School District on Jan. 1.

Current Superintendent William Miller is retiring to take a new rule as executive director of the Michigan Association of Intermediate School Administrators.

Leyshock, the current assistant superintendent for student services, will hold the position until the WISD Board of Education finds a new superintendent. Leyshock has been working at the WISD since 1977 in numerous roles, including special education teacher, teacher consultant and special education director.

“I’m pleased and honored to serve the WISD as its interim superintendent, and I look forward to advancing the district’s good work,” he said, adding he is not a candidate for the permanent position.

Leyshock also said he plans to retire at the end of August 2011.

In his new role, Miller will be working with intermediate school districts from around the state and individual superintendents, along with policymakers in Lansing.

The WISD Board of Education is beginning the process to hire a new superintendent, starting with the hiring of a professional search firm. The board will begin interviewing firms at its Dec. 14 meeting.

Board President Mark Van Bogelen said Leyshock was the right person to lead the WISD as interim superintendent.

“We appreciate Mr. Leyshock’s ability and willingness to step into this role,” he said. “He’s the perfect person to guide the district during this time.”

Kyle Feldscher covers K-12 education for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at kylefeldscher@annarbor.com.