During my tenure as your superintendent, I am proud and thankful for the amazing adventure we have had together. I’m proud to have presided over the district and to have worked alongside a dedicated school board, teachers, and staff who served this dynamic community, grounded in our shared commitment to the success of every student, every day.
I love our students, teachers, staff, and families. One of the most rewarding parts of my job has been seeing our students grow and succeed. The dedication of our teachers and staff is second to none. Our educators continue to impress me daily, and I am proud of the collaborative spirit that the Chatham schools embody.
I'd be mistaken not to acknowledge the awesomeness that is Tlingit heritage. We have felt so privileged and have been so deeply touched to have been welcomed by these loving and strong people: my family and I. The wisdom of the Tlingit culture is ingrained in my thoughts and dedication to social justice and cultural appreciation.
While this personal decision to step out of my role is bittersweet, it’s also rooted in the very simple yet profound need to spend more time with my family as my parents age. Family isn’t just important, it’s a fundamental philosophy that I live by. I think it is essential to develop and nurture those relationships, and I hope to embark on this next chapter and be there for them as they have been for me throughout my journey.
Thank you for trusting in me and the millions of memories that we have shared together. Chatham, the spirit of you will always stay with me, and I look forward to watching the blossoming of our students and the continued prosperity of our community.
Dr. Ralph M. Watkins
Superintendent, Chatham School District