(10/16/06) MASTIC BEACH ? The superintendent of William Floyd School District in Mastic Beach resigned Monday night in the midst of a spending scandal.

Richard Hawkins announced his resignation after nearly ten years on the job at a school board meeting at William Floyd High School. Although Hawkins cited personal reasons, controversy has surrounded him the past few months. In August, a state audit revealed missing funds. It was later revealed that Hawkins allegedly gave himself pay raises and reimbursements for personal expenses without the consent of the school board.

Hawkins has not been charged with any type of crime, but district parents say the audit probably had a lot to do with the resignation. The former superintendent maintains the board of education did not force him out. The deputy superintendent will serve the post in an interim capacity until a replacement is found.