SOUTH KINGSTOWN — Citing work and family obligations, Natalie Herbermann resigned from the School Committee yesterday.

Herbermann, a mother of four who teaches at the Department of Corrections, was a political newcomer when she was elected as a Democrat two years ago.

But, she said, family and work demands had grown too great for her to fulfill her term, which expires in 2010.

“There was not enough time in the day to fulfill commitments,” Herbermann said last week.

She praised the committee members for their dedication, professionalism and productivity.

“I wish I could keep up with these guys,” she said. “Overall, it was a very positive experience.”

Herbermann, who often rode her bicycle to meetings, is the third member to resign in the last year and a half.

Joseph Sweet served five years before giving his notice last November. He and his wife moved to Naples, Fla.

First-term committeewoman Anne Whaley cited health and family issues in announcing her departure last May.

By Town Charter, the Town Council could fill the position on an interim basis until the Nov. 4 election. After that, the fifth-highest vote getter would take the seat for the remainder of the term, according to the town clerk’s office.

The terms of four committee members are up in November: Chairman Dr. Anthony Mega, Stephen Scott Mueller, Richard E. Angeli Jr. and David Pezzullo. Mega, Mueller, and Angeli are seeking to return to the board and are joined on the Democratic slate by Frederick Lee Frostic.

Also running are Republican Robert E. Petrucci and independent Jonathan E. Pincince.

kmulvane@projo.com