MONTREAL - The man who has been a prominent face for public school in Montreal's West Island for a quarter-century is calling it quits.
Marcus Tabachnick confirmed Monday morning that he is resigning as chair of the Lester B. Pearson school board.
"I much more emotional today than I ever expected to be," said Tabachnick.
He was first elected as a school commissioner in 1984, when the organization was known as the Lakeshore School Board, and became chairman in 1994.
In 1998 he presided over the switch from religious to linguistic school boards, remaining chair of the then newly-formed LBP board.
Now at age 60, Tabachnick says he is taking advantage of an opportunity to work at a private company whose name he was not willing to reveal.
The council now has 30 days to select a new chair.
"I'm leaving it in good hands, our council is strong," said Tabachnick.
Vice-chair Angela Nolet will act as interim chair.
