(KAIR)--The President of Atchison's Maur Hill-Mount Academy is stepping down, giving his notice of intent as her prepares to fill that same position at a Kansas City-area Catholic high school.

According to a news release, Phil Baniewicz has informed MH-MA leadership of his decision to assume the role of president at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park, Kansas, a school that like MH-MA, has a long history as a Catholic secondary educational institution within the Kansas City area.

Maur Hill-Mount Academy Board Chair Dave Domann, in the release, says it's expected that Baniewicz will remain in his current position until his successor is hired, adding that the school leaders "anticipate a smooth transition, with no disruptions in the school's normal day-to-day operations."

Domain says Baniewicz, who was named MH-MA president in 2010, "has made important advancements in academic and athletic achievements and has undergone substantial capital projects to modernize the campus buildings, athletic facilities and programs" during his tenure, adding that Baniewicz "will be leaving MH-MA well-positioned to build on his legacy."

Maur Hill-Mount Academy will, the release says, conduct "a nationwide search to find his replacement, with Domann saying the school "will strive to identify a qualified leader who will continue the direction and carry on the traditions that have made MH-MA one of the leading Catholic schools in the nation."

Once the right fit is found, Domann says "there will be a transition phase during which time he or she will have the opportunity to work with [Baniewicz] while taking on the responsibilities" of what Domann calls "an important leadership position," with the new hire to become "thoroughly familiar with the school's faculty, staff, students and many supporters, as well as overall operations."

The Most Reverend Joseph Naumann, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, calls Baniewicz "an exceptional leader for Maur Hill-Mount Academy," adding, in the release, that he is delighted that Baniewicz will continue to use his leadership skills "to serve Catholic schools as he begins his new responsibilities."

Baniewicz, in the release, says he is "grateful for the opportunity to lead for nearly 14 years," noting that he "will always be a Raven," the mascot of the Atchison college-preparatory boarding high school, adding that it's "now time for a new person to step in and take the school to new heights."