Oswego Superintendent Wendt Accepts Arkansas Job

OSWEGO, IL — Oswego Superintendent Matthew Wendt has verbally accepted the position of superintendent with the Fayetteville Public Schools district in Arkansas.

Wendt’s resignation will be effective June 30. His new position begins July 1.

Wendt said in a release that his interest in the Arkansas position began in November 2015 when his friend and current superintendent of Fayetteville schools Paul Hewitt told him he was planning to retire.

“Having visited Fayetteville numerous times every year for the past decade, I was aware of its appeal and attractiveness,” Wendt said in a release. “For me, the community is noted for its proximity to immediate and extended family, former colleagues, decades-old friendships and my Alma mater, the University of Arkansas. Many of you are aware of this connection and are likely not surprised by my interest in the superintendent’s position.”

Wendt said he’s loved being superintendent of Oswego schools, but his quality of life and desire to be closer to family were major factors in applying for and accepting the job.

“It is time for us to return to an area that allows for closer and more frequent family contact, while having an extraordinary chance to serve a highly-respected public school district,” Wendt said.

Despite leaving, Wendt said he will remain dedicated to the district until his last day.

“Thank you for the support, encouragement and the genuine care provided to me and my family. This is a very special place, and I am a better person for having been here with you,” Wendt said.