NORWAY – Hebron Station School Principal Nathan Merrill will be stepping down to return to the classroom next fall.

The announcement was made by Superintendent Mark Eastman to SAD 17 directors on Monday night.

Eastman said the principal will go to the Paris Elementary School to teach a third-grade class.

“Mr. Merrill loves the classroom,” Eastman said.

Merrill, who was not available for comment, has been the principal at the Hebron Station School for the past three years.

The 1992 graduate of Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School in Paris had taught fourth grade at the school for several years prior to becoming principal.

At the time he was hired as principal, Merrill said, “I love the classroom and I never want to leave the classroom,” but he also wanted an opportunity to be instrumental in the development of curriculum in the school.

Eastman said Merrill has worked closely with the teachers throughout his time as principal particularly in the areas of math, science and writing.

The principal’s position will be advertised this summer. No other changes are expected in principals districtwide.