International High School announced that Anthony Amato, former superintendent of New Orleans Public Schools, died Monday morning. Here is the full text of a press release from the school:

International High School of New Orleans Head of School Anthony Amato passed away early Monday morning, December 2, 2013. He was 66.

Amato served as Head of School at IHSNO since 2010, garnering national and international attention as the only prestigious InternationalBaccalaureate certified school in New Orleans. From 2003 to 2005, Amato was the superintendent for the Orleans Parish Schools and four other major school districts in the United States during his 40 year career in public education.

Chairman of the Voices for International Business and Education (IHSNO’s governing board) Rob Couhig III said “With heavy hearts, we announce the loss of our school leader, Anthony Amato. Tony passed away unexpectedly yet peacefully surrounded by his beloved family. The International High School and the entire education community is greatly indebted to Tony for his tireless and lifelong dedication to public education.”

Couhig announced that grief counselors have been brought into the school today for the faculty and IHSNO’s 500 students to help cope with their loss. Nan Ryan, Assistant Head of School, will be acting as Head of School at the Louisiana Type- 2 charter school until the Board meets in a special meeting later this week to choose Amato’s interim successor.

“While it will be difficult to fill his shoes, the VIBE board will continue its nationwide search for his permanent successor.  Tony’s presence will be missed but never forgotten. We appreciate the strong foundation that he has laid for the future of our school.” Couhig said.

Funeral arrangements for Amato are pending. He is survived by his wife and seven children.