Dr. Ranier Melucci, superintendent of schools for the Merrick School District, announced his future retirement at the Merrick Board of Education meeting Tuesday night.

Melucci will retire at the end of the 2011-12 school year. He has been the superintendent in Merrick for the past nine years.

"These past nine years have been the most rewarding in my 39 years," he said at the meeting.

Although Melucci said that he will leave Merrick with "mixed feelings," he credited the Board of Education for making difficult decisions and he feels confident in the future of the district.

Attendees were happy for Melucci, but were sad to see him go, filling the room with kind wishes for his future.

"We wish you as many years happily retired as you worked," Lisa Ruiz, assistant superintendent for curriculum, instruction and pupil services, said.

Chatterton principal, Cindy Davidowitz, said, "We want to thank Dr. Melucci for the past nine years of support. He has been a mentor to each and every one of the building administrators."

Ruth Rosenberg, a teacher at Lakeside School, added, "We wish you years of magic and happiness and everything wonderful in your retirement."