Proud to have served Washington
After a great deal of thoughtful consideration, I have decided to exit my 43-year career in public education and retire at the end of this school year. I have been privileged to have served Washington since 1997, first as director of pupil personnel, and then as superintendent of schools beginning in 1999.
As superintendent, I have had the privilege and good fortune to work with a progressive board of directors, a knowledgeable, highly professional, student-centered administrative team, and a dedicated, collaborative group of teachers and support staff who always have only the best interests of our students as their priority. There is a lot to be proud of regarding what is happening in the Washington School District. All will better prepare our students for the world they inherit in this 21st Century.
I have often shared with my colleagues throughout the commonwealth and in West Virginia the many ways we have worked together to improve educational services for children. In today’s political environment, that is not always the case.
During my 20-year tenure in the district, we have been through the worst of times and the best of times. But the levels of caring and support in this district have always been exceptional. It is for those reasons and others too many to recite that I have difficulty walking away from this strong, loyal learning community. I have loved and cherished my work and the relationships built with our amazing students, teachers, staff, administrators, parents, community members, business leaders and elected officials.
Any success that others may attach to my leadership in Washington can be accredited to a supportive board of directors and a tremendously capable group of Prexie family members who have worked with me for the past 20 years.
I am optimistic about my retirement and the eventual next phase of my life, but I am saddened about the departure from colleagues and friends that I have worked with so closely. One’s professional life can easily define an individual due to the time, effort and commitment applied. I can retire at this time knowing that I have given my best to Washington School District, its families, children, staff members and board. My tenure will forever be a significant part of who I am.
Roberta DiLorenzo
Washington
DiLorenzo is the superintendent of Washington School District.