Early Wednesday morning news was released that Rocklin High’s principal, David Bills, will be leaving us at the end of the semester.

The news comes as quite a shock, after only three and one half years of being principal Bills has made this announcement with less than two weeks before departing.

“I’ve accepted a position as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources in the Yuba City Unified School District.” Bills said.

The sudden departure is due to the fact that the position is “not tied to a school calendar.” Otherwise, Bills would have preferred to wait until the end of the school year.

Overall, emotions seem to be mixed as a beloved staff member is moving on to a new and exciting position, but at the expense of leaving Rocklin High.

“I’m glad for him, but I’m sad for us.” said Colleen Crowe, a government teacher at Rocklin High.

“I’m sad to see him go,” said Trevor Bohatch, ASB President, “He’s always been really warm and friendly. He’s an administrator that, as a student body, we all trust a lot.”

“I appreciate that he gives students the opportunity to show what they can do and what they’re capable of before he limits them or tries to set boundaries.” Bohatch said.

Ryan O’Donnell, a history and technology teacher, said “We’re saddened by [his departure] because we love working with him. We like the direction that he’s led us, so it’s a combination of emotions.”

Assistant Principal Davis Stewart was sad to learn of Bills’ departure, “He is a true man of integrity. He leaves a large impression on Rocklin High School; he definitely established a level of character for all of us to try and meet. We really appreciate what he’s done for us, and wish him and his family well.”

“I think we’re losing a very quality person in general, he cares about kids, he cares about his staff, and I think he’s tried to make this the best place that he can. It’ll be sad to see him go.” said Crowe.

Bills expressed his own sadness about leaving, “I’ve been here nine and a half years, it’s been my family, it’s been my home, I live in Rocklin, I’m going to miss everyone here, it’s a great community, great teachers, great teachers, great students, amazing staff that I’m going to miss very much.”