Kincheloe Elementary School Principal Dawn Conner was named the Dowagiac Union School District’s deputy superintendent Thursday, replacing current deputy superintendent Ed Yoder.

During a special meeting of the board of education, Supt. Mark Daniel read a letter about Yoder’s resignation from his position. Yoder accepted a position as superintendent of a small Christian school. His resignation will be effective June 22. Daniel said he was happy to welcome Conner, who has been working in the district for 25 years.

“This is a wonderful opportunity,” Daniel said. “We need leaders such as Ms. Conner during this important time in education.”

In other related news, Dowagiac Middle School art teacher Janet Hurlbert also resigned, which will take effect at the end of the 2011-2012 academic school year.

Dowagiac Middle School Principal Mike Frazier will also retire. Daniel said Frazier would be on hand to help with the school’s transition.

“Being an educator and a citizen of Dowagiac, he’ll be nearby to assist,” Daniel said.