A longtime member of Lehighton Area School District’s board of directors is stepping down.

Wayne Wentz submitted his resignation, effective immediately, to the district, Superintendent Jonathan Cleaver said Monday night.

The 14-year board member cited health reasons for his decision.

“My health has deteriorated to the point where I need to focus on it,” Wentz said in a letter read at Monday’s board meeting.

“As a Vietnam veteran I was exposed to Agent Orange, and as a result my lungs are damaged beyond repair. A most recent appointment at the Veterans Administration Hospital showed increased damage to my lungs with no cure. As a matter of fact, even after being given 2-5 years I went against my family’s wishes and ran again for school board. That is how important this area and school district is to me. I will fight to my last breath to support the students and staff of Lehighton School District.”

Wentz has two years left on his current term.

“I’m sure this was a tough decision for Wayne,” Cleaver said regarding the resignation. “He’s been on this board and served it well for a long time. Even when he and I didn’t agree on something, it was always an agree to disagree type situation with a lot of respect and understanding. We certainly thank him and wish him well with everything.”

In addition to his health, Wentz cited a well-documented rift in Lehighton’s board, evidenced by many 5-4 votes over the last several years.

“It’s hard for me to step away when there is still so much work left to do for the students, teachers and staff of the Lehighton Area School District, especially now, when they need more people like us; Larry Stern, Rita Spinelli, Steve Holland and Nathan Foeller, to stand up to others on this Board who won’t, or can’t, prioritize the best interests of the children over their own egos and self interests,” Wentz said.

In his resignation letter, Wentz said he has fought for the best interest of students over the last 14 years.

“My voting positions have not always been popular,” he said. “From time to time, I have changed my mind, and I am mature and secure enough with my conscience and my moral compass to admit that I have made mistakes along the way. Having an open mind and self-awareness is how leaders learn and grow to become even more knowledgeable, effective leaders.”

Wentz thanked his wife, Sharon, and the rest of his family for their support over the years.

“At some point,” he said, “you owe it to your family to walk away and repay them for the kindness and patience that they’ve afforded you for the late nights and the milestones that you’ve missed for this.”