The principal of Destin High School has resigned, school officials announced Monday.

• Principal Christine Cruickshank submitted her resignation to Destin High Executive Director Donald “Willy” Williams on Friday, citing a need to focus on family and health. Her last day will be March 3.

“While we will miss her leadership as principal, we fully support her decision to prioritize her family and well-being,” Williams wrote in a letter to parents.

Cruickshank has served as principal since the inception of the school. In her resignation letter, she said the decision was made after “much prayer and thought.”

• “I have loved my tenure as Principal over the last 3+ years. However, for family, health, and personal reasons I feel this is the best choice for me currently,” she wrote.

Cruickshank said she hoped to continue playing a role at the school in some capacity. Williams said she will stay on in a part-time position helping with dual enrollment processes.

The search for Cruickshank’s replacement starts immediately. The open principal position has been posted on the school’s website.

As the school navigates this leadership transition, Williams says he is actively working on a plan to “ensure academic continuity and growth for our school.” He said further details of a transition plan will be communicated to all stakeholders in the next few days as they are finalized.

“Change presents opportunities for growth and new beginnings,” he wrote. “I am confident we will continue to build on our strong foundation and will move forward with a shared commitment to excellence in education.”