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AMHERST - Ray Sharick, the principal of Fort River Elementary School who has been on paid leave for over four months, resigned last week.

Superintendent Maria Geryk said she has initiated a search for a new principal and plans to choose one by early May. Interim Principal Susan Kennedy Marx and interim Assistant Principal Karen Lowe will continue in those roles through the end of the school year, Geryk said.

Geryk has declined to specify the reason for Sharick's absence, but in a letter to parents and teachers in December, Sharick wrote, "I would like to thank you all for your patience with my absence, and for the respect you have shown for my family's privacy while I attend to this health issue."

Sharick, who started as principal in 2008, will continue to be on the payroll through the month, Geryk said. His annual salary is $84,000.

Geryk said she has been in contact with Sharick throughout his leave, and he requested a meeting with her last Wednesday, at which he resigned. She plans to recruit candidates for the position starting next week, she said.

"I've spoken to teachers and families, and Fort River has had an exceptional experience this year," she said. "Has this been stressful for families and staff? Yes. But people have weathered it well by focusing on what's in the best interests of students."

School Committee member Catherine Sanderson, who is a Fort River parent, said Kennedy Marx has done "an excellent job in difficult times."

"Some families were anxious not knowing who the principal would be for next year, and there's a sense of relief to know that a search will happen and a permanent principal will be named," she said.

Geryk said she plans to seek public comment on what qualities the new principal should have. She plans to take the same survey that preceded the hiring of Regional Middle School Principal Michael Hayes last year and put it on the schools' website and send it to families of Fort River students, she said.

The deadline for applications is April 8. A screening committee comprising Fort River teachers and parents, a School Committee member and a central office administrator will review the applications.

The committee will conduct private interviews with four to six semifinalists and recommend two or three finalists who will answer questions at a public forum, Geryk said.

The superintendent will make the final choice.

Amherst is seeking "a leader with strong mission, courage and care for individuals," according to an advertisement placed on Friday. The ad says Amherst wants someone with at least five years of relevant experience.