AMHERST — Michael Morris, who has served as interim school superintendent for the Amherst public schools since August, will not seek the permanent post.

On Monday, Morris sent letters to School Committee members and faculty and staff alerting them that he plans to continue in the interim role through the end of the academic year, but will not throw his hat in the ring to become the next superintendent.

“The decision not to apply for the permanent position of superintendent of schools was extremely difficult for me for many reasons, but my focus will remain on the education of all students in our district regardless of my role,” Morris wrote, adding that he would return to being assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction.

In his letter to faculty, Morris saluted “the incredible work done by the faculty and staff of Amherst, Pelham and Amherst-Pelham Regional Schools to educate, nurture and support all our students.”