After 41 years in education and nearly 5 years leading Skamania School, I am about to enter into a new chapter of my life. I will be retiring, as planned, at the end of the school year on June 30. Announcing early will give the district plenty of time to select a new leader.
I am grateful for the time at Skamania School and especially the progress the team and I have made these past few years. My leadership focus has been on modernization – of both the facility and instructional practices. This has included securing a multi-million dollar facilities upgrade grant, replacing an outdated reading curriculum, being recognized as a STEM Lighthouse School, purchasing a new bus through a grant, implementing a tiered system of support for students, starting a transitional kindergarten class for 4-year-old children, and hiring some outstanding, positive, collaborative, and forward thinking professionals.
During the next few months, I will work with the staff and board to; 1) move forward on the math curriculum adoption process, 2) prepare for spring state student assessments, 3) complete an annual report, 4) facilitate the reforestation of the property, and 5) advertise, recruit, and hire a new superintendent/principal.
The rich, 150 year history of this school proves that the school will tackle challenges currently faced and continue to improve and thrive. Thank you for the opportunity to get to know and serve the community of Skamania School. It has been an honor.
Sincerely,
Dr. Ralph Pruitt