SAN ANTONIO – A longtime Northside ISD school administrator is retiring after 40 years.

NISD spokesman Pascual Gonzalez is the longtime executive director of communications for the district.

Gonzalez has also worked for the district as a middle school and high school English and journalism teacher, as well as assistant director and director of communications.

Gonzalez was honored for his lifelong service to public education.

"It’s really a very bitter sweet moment, because I love Northside School District, a school district of the highest integrity. I think I've been around long enough. I certainly hope I made a positive impact on this community, and it's time to move on,” Gonzalez said.

“While we are sad to see him go, we know those are shoes that are huge to fill. We couldn't be more pleased for him,” said Brian Woods, NISD superintendent.

Gonzalez also served as president of the Texas School Public Relations Association and was named “Professional of the Year” by Public Relations San Antonio.

Barry Perez will take over Gonzalez’s job. He recently served as the principal of John Folks Middle School. He will start his new position in September.