Richard Watson
Maple City,MI
Summary
Visionary and results-driven educational leader with over three years of experience as Superintendent of Woodland School, a public charter district serving the Traverse City community. Passionate about student success, curriculum innovation, and fostering a collaborative school culture. Proven track record in strategic planning, academic achievement growth, community engagement, and operational efficiency.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Superintendent
Woodland School
01.2022 - Current
- Leadership & Administration: Provide strategic direction and oversight for a 220 K-8 public charter school district, increasing the fund balance from 24 to 35% from 202-2025
- Increased student enrollment by 10% and have maintained it, while hiring several key staff during tenure
- Board & Governance: Work closely with the Board of Directors, supporting policy development, strategic initiatives, and school improvement planning
- Led efforts to recruit five new board members for 2022-2025
- Strategic Planning: Created a school/parent strategic planning committee, leading yearly updates to the Woodland School mission and vision
- This committee, composed of parents, board members, and staff, focuses on curriculum, staffing, school vision, and building needs
- Curriculum & Instruction: Led the implementation of the science of reading UFLI and Fishtank reading programs, enhancing literacy outcomes, and integrated a new K-5 math curriculum, implemented schoolwide VR classroom headset curriculum
- Assessment & Data-Driven Decisions: Championed the use of NWEA MAP, STAR literacy, and math assessments to track student progress and inform instructional strategies
- Developed child study processes and added math and reading interventionists at all grade levels
- PBIS & Student Supports: Established a tiered PBIS system and implemented a school-wide SEL program through Move This World
- Created Woodland's first guidance counselor position and successfully filled the role
- Community Engagement: Organized events like Literacy Night and Winterfest, strengthening relationships with families, local businesses, and stakeholders
- Established multiple community partnerships, including Father Fred, TCAPS sports and high school transition programs, and musical collaborations with Central High School's theater, band, and choir programs
- Building Renovations & Upgrades: Led major facility improvements, including: $100,000 theater lighting replacement, $125,000 roof replacement, Flooring and carpet upgrades, furniture upgrades, and extensive renovations, Created a Head of Maintenance/Facilities Director position to oversee ongoing projects
- Arts & Music Partnerships: Developed relationships with Marshall Music, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, Northwest Ballet Academy, and Dance Arts Academy, enriching student experiences with live performances, workshops, and camp opportunities
- Technology & Innovation: Integrated iPads and Chromebooks into classrooms to support a 1:1 digital learning initiative
- Upgraded PA systems and security infrastructure, including district-wide emergency planning and camera systems
- School Safety & Security: Implemented major security upgrades, including: Exterior lighting poles in parking lots, Upgraded light poles along sidewalks and building lighting, New camera and security systems using grants, Established partnerships with Grand Traverse County Sheriff Department, White Water Township Fire Department, and Michigan State Troopers for school-wide safety initiatives
Middle School Principal
Kingsley Area Schools
01.2019 - 01.2022
- Provided leadership to Kingsley Middle School, improving academic performance and the learning environment
- Developed school-wide initiatives focused on student achievement, behavior management, and community involvement
- Coordinated professional development and worked with staff to enhance student learning outcomes
- Managed budgets, resources, and student safety protocols
Principal
Bullitt County Public Schools
01.2015 - 01.2019
- Led a specialized math and science curriculum program, preparing students for advanced academic achievement and STEM careers
- Fostered a culture of academic excellence by promoting inquiry-based learning and hands-on experiences
- Provided leadership to Riverview High School, focusing on academic outcomes and fostering a positive school climate
- Developed programs to promote student engagement, retention, and achievement
- Coordinated teacher development and ensured compliance with state and federal regulations
Teacher
Jefferson County Public Schools
01.2012 - 01.2016
- Taught elementary students, creating engaging lesson plans and promoting academic achievement
- Developed and implemented IEPs to support diverse learning needs
- Worked collaboratively with staff and parents to ensure an inclusive learning environment
US Army Soldier
01.2006 - 01.2012
- Served in various locations, contributing to military operations and leadership training
Teacher
St. Francis of Assisi School
01.2003 - 01.2006
Education
Ed.D -
University of the Cumberlands
Ed. Specialist Degree - Instruction/Director and Pupil/Personnel
Asbury University
Master of Education (M.Ed.) - Educational Leadership
Neumann University
Bachelor of Arts (BA) - Elementary Education
Neumann University
Michigan Central Office Endorsement -
State of Michigan
Michigan Elementary and Secondary Admin K-12 Certification -
State of Michigan
Skills
- Educational Leadership & Policy Implementation
- Strategic Planning & School Improvement
- Community & Stakeholder Engagement
- Curriculum Development & Instructional Leadership
- Budgeting & Financial Oversight
- Data-Driven Decision Making
- Technology Integration in Education
- Student Achievement & Assessment Analysis
Affiliations
- Northwest Education Superintendent Member
- Michigan Association of School Administrators
- Michigan Elementary and Middle School Principal Association
- NEA (National Association of Administrators in Education)
Timeline
Superintendent
Woodland School
01.2022 - Current
Middle School Principal
Kingsley Area Schools
01.2019 - 01.2022
Principal
Bullitt County Public Schools
01.2015 - 01.2019
Teacher
Jefferson County Public Schools
01.2012 - 01.2016
US Army Soldier
01.2006 - 01.2012
Teacher
St. Francis of Assisi School
01.2003 - 01.2006
Ed. Specialist Degree - Instruction/Director and Pupil/Personnel
Asbury University
Master of Education (M.Ed.) - Educational Leadership
Neumann University
Bachelor of Arts (BA) - Elementary Education
Neumann University
Michigan Central Office Endorsement -
State of Michigan
Michigan Elementary and Secondary Admin K-12 Certification -
State of Michigan
Ed.D -
University of the Cumberlands
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