PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Education officials in Philadelphia say they are hiring William Hite Jr. as the school district's new superintendent.

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Hite currently heads the public schools in Prince George's County, Maryland.

Philadelphia School Reform Commission Chairman Pedro Ramos announced Hite's selection on Friday evening, calling him "a proven transformative leader."

Hite's starting date has not yet been determined. A statement from the Prince George's school board says he must give four months notice.

Philadelphia's previous superintendent, Arlene Ackerman, left abruptly last summer after clashing with local officials.

Pedro Martinez, the deputy superintendent of Nevada's Clark County school district, was also a finalist for the Philadelphia job.

On Friday, he took a job as head of the Washoe County schools in Nevada.

Prince George's County Board of Education Statement on Superintendent Hite's Departure:

UPPER MARLBORO, MD-The Prince George's County Board of Education released the following statement regarding the pending departure of Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent of Schools:

Dr. Hite has served Prince George's County Public Schools with distinction over the last six years and it is with deep disappointment that we greet the news of his departure. He has led Prince George's County schools with vision and innovation under financial challenges that might have broken a weaker superintendent. We appreciate the stability, progress, transparency and accountability that accompanied his tenure. The foundation for future success is firmly in place thanks in large part to his efforts.

Dr. Hite's contract contains a 120-day notice provision. We will work with the Superintendent over the next four months on a transition plan to ensure a smooth start to the 2012-2013 school year. In the coming weeks, the Board of Education will decide on an interim superintendent and announce plans to work with the community on the process for selecting Dr. Hite's successor.

We hope that you will join us in wishing Dr. Hite the very best in his new post and extending sincere appreciation for all that he helped us to accomplish in Prince George's County.