He said he decided months ago to give up his position as leader of the body, which shapes and oversees state education policy. He will, however, remain a member of the board for the rest of his three-year term, he said.

"I've spent thousands of hours in this work, and I really enjoy doing it," Burningham said.

He complimented State Superintendent Patti Harrington and her staff on the way they run the Utah State Office of Education.

Burningham said he's partly stepping down because he's exhausted from the long voucher campaign and partly because of his wife's health issues.

He said he has other reasons as well that are personal, but didn't elaborate. Burningham has been one of the most vocal opponents of vouchers over the past several months.

Burningham said he's served as chairman on the board for seven years.

He said the board will begin the process of electing a new leader in December.