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Tuesday night was the final Hamblen County Board of Education meeting for Assistant Superintendent Matthew Drinnon.

His last day will be April 30.

Drinnon was recently selected as the new Director of Schools for Greeneville City Schools in Greene County.

“He has served Hamblen County since 2011 as an assistant principal, principal, human resources supervisor and now ending up his time with us as Assistant Superintendent of Schools for Administration,” Hamblen County Superintendent of Schools Arnold Bunch said. “He has been twice named ‘Principal of the Year’ for Hamblen County; he was ‘Supervisor of the Year while he was our Human Resources Supervisor.

“He has done a remarkable job in every position that he has held in our district,” Bunch said.

As Bunch came to Hamblen County Schools several years ago after retiring from the U.S. Air Force, Bunch credited Drinnon with helping him to learn the lay of the land.

“He helped tremendously as I transitioned into the role of Superintendent of Schools,” Bunch said. “He not only supported my ideas, but he also educated me without grimacing too badly with my lack of knowledge when I asked questions any knucklehead would have already known.”

Bunch said that anyone who has had the privilege of interacting with Drinnon has walked away better from the interaction.

“Even though he is leaving, for his friendship, mentorship and leadership, he will long be present in Hamblen County Schools,” Bunch said. “People will be quoting him and using his bits of wisdom that he has passed on for many, many years.

“Matt, we’re thrilled that you’re getting this opportunity, but we know what a void your departure is going to leave for us. Greeneville City made a very wise choice when they selected you for this role. Please know that you’re going to be sorely missed and we’ll be here to provide any support as you move into your new role. We wish you nothing but the best as you move into your next leadership step.

Bunch presented him a folded Tennessee state flag from the Hamblen County Air Force JROTC.

Drinnon will replace the retiring Steve Starnes, a native of Rogersville, as Greeneville City’s Director of Schools