It was announced last week that Fountain Hills High School Principal Tom Brennan will exit his post at the conclusion of the current school year, moving on to join Mesa Public Schools as principal of Skyline High School.

Fountain Hills Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sweeney announced Brennan’s impending departure through a letter to FHHS families. Brennan was officially approved by the Mesa Public Schools Governing Board during a meeting held Wednesday evening, March 30. Brennan notified his high school staff of his decision a day prior.

Brennan also remarked on his decision in a comment ran in this week’s edition of The Times, calling it a “once in a lifetime opportunity” that would allow him to work just a couple of miles from home, as well as at the school where his children attend.

As highlighted in Dr. Sweeney’s letter, Brennan began his tenure in FHUSD back in 2003, starting out as the assistant principal of the high school. From there, he became the principal of Fountain Hills Middle School before moving to his current post as principal of the high school.

“Throughout his time at FHUSD, he has been a leader, a hard worker and an enthusiastic cheerleader,” said Sweeney.

“Tom is level-headed and calm, and these are traits that have served him and the district well.”

Soon to leave the nest, Brennan said that his time at FHUSD won’t be forgotten.

“My years as a Falcon have left an indelible impression on who I am as a person and as a leader,” Brennan added.

“I have been the recipient of tremendous support from parents, community members, supervisors, staff member and, most importantly, the hundreds of students who have passed through the half of FHHS and FHMS under my watch.”

According to Sweeney, Brennan will finish out the year at FHHS, but the position of principal for FHHS has already been posted.

“My goal is to hire a new principal as soon as possible and we will be working with staff, parents and students as part of the hiring process over the coming weeks,” he said.

When it comes to saying goodbye to Brennan, Sweeney said he is of mixed emotions.

“I am extremely happy for Tom and the positive impact this change will have on his family and his long-term career interests,” he said.

“Skyline High School is getting a great principal who will provide exemplary service to the school and the community.

“On the other hand, we’ll be saying goodbye to a rock solid colleague and a great friend. Please join me in wishing Tom all the best in his future endeavors.”