CK school boss to retire in '04

After 33 years in public education, Cathy Davidson, superintendent for Central Kitsap schools will retire in June 2004. The school board is expected to accept her formal letter of retirement during its regular meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 10.

“While a decision such as this brings a certain type of closure, it also opens doors, creating new opportunities and challenges,” Davidson stated in a press release. “Truly, I have loved each phase of my career, never tiring of the challenges, always savoring the rewards born of the relationships we are called to form,” she stated.

Davidson is considering teaching at the university level, deepening her involvement in the faith community and becoming involved in international peace initiatives, she said in an interview Thursday.

“You can’t work in public education for 33 years and not have it in every fiber of your being,” she said adding she has no plans to move out of the area.

Davidson has served as superintendent since July 1999 and is responsible for the district’s administration, including a $96 million budget, 13,000 students in 23 schools, and 1,600 employees.

As superintendent, she helped with state and federal reform initiatives, ensured the district stayed focused on strategic planning, and advocated for strong partnerships with community leaders.

“Dr. Davidson is a dedicated leader for our students and staff,” said CK School Board President Chris Stokke. “Under her leadership, Central Kitsap has consistently been recognized by state and national organizations for the exceptional quality of its educational program and its commitment to improving student achievement.

“It will be challenging for our Board of Directors to find an educational leader with her outstanding qualifications and educational leadership ability,” Stokke said.

He said the board has not yet discussed the search process — whether it will be nationwide or involve a consultant — but is expected to do so Wednesday.

“I’m sad to see her go, but I’m happy for her at the same time,” Stokke said Thursday.

The board will begin the process of searching for a new superintendent working closely with staff, parents, students, and the community.

Davidson’s community involvement goes beyond the school district. She serves as the education chairwoman for the Base Realignment and Closure Committee (BRACC). She also served her community as a member of the Silverdale Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors; facilitator of the Superintendent’s Advisory Council for Olympic ESD; and as a member of the Rotary Club of Silverdale, CK Citizens for Quality Education, Superintendent’s Administrative Council for West Sound Tech, and the Paul Linder Educational Foundation.

Davidson earned her superintendent’s credentials and doctorate in Educational Leadership from Seattle University and her masters’ degree in Educational Administration from Western Washington University. Davidson came to the District in 1994 as the director of secondary education, career/technical programs, and the co-curricular program.

Her past experience includes serving as the principal of Tahoma Senior High School in Tahoma School District, the associate principal of Juanita High School in Lake Washington School District, and the assistant principal of Kentwood High School in the Kent School District.

She has also served as an adjunct professor at the Seattle University School of Education and as an adjunct advisor for City University’s Master’s in Education Program.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read.