(ABC 6 News) – Another superintendent is adding their name to the list of district leaders leaving their post in Southeastern Minnesota.

According to the Pine Island School Board’s website, the district is holding a special meeting on Thursday and the agenda includes the resignation of the current superintendent Tonya Constantine, who took the job less than a year ago.

The agenda also lists a job description and a timeline for the search for Constantine’s predecessor.

We reached out to Constantine who tells us she has accepted a role as the Anoka-Hennepin School District’s deputy superintendent.

She says she made the difficult decision to leave in part due to her son moving to the metro for college.

Below is the letter sent to Pine Island Staff before her resignation.

“Good afternoon Pine Island Staff,

It is with a heavy heart that I let you know I have accepted the position as Deputy Superintendent for the Anoka-Hennepin Public Schools, beginning with the 2025-2026 school year.

This is not a position I was seeking; I was contacted by Anoka-Hennepin regarding this leadership role in teaching and learning.

I have enjoyed my time in Pine Island and have such enormous respect for the people and community–for each of you who make this the reputable district it is. This has been an extremely difficult decision for me because I have always envisioned my years remaining in Pine Island. However, I find myself unable to turn this unexpected opportunity down, especially with my freshman son moving back home to continue his college experience in the metro.

You have welcomed me with open arms and I have appreciated the opportunity to spend part of our lives together, making positive changes for our most precious gifts–our learners. 

Know that I will continue working hard for Pine Island for the remainder of the school year. You will always hold a special place in my heart.

♥️

Tonya”

This latest resignation comes as there seems to be a growing exodus from Southeastern Minnesota schools, as numerous superintendent positions have been vacated in the past year.

In just the past week, Albert Lea Schools, Byron Schools, and Kasson-Mantorville Schools all extended offers to new superintendents.