Superintendent Dr. Drew Watkins Retires After 18 Years of Service in Prosper ISD

Good Morning PISD Community,

I really do not know where to start so I guess I will just begin.  After 34 years in education and 18 years serving as superintendent of Prosper ISD, I have made the difficult decision to retire.  There is nothing easy about this decision – I have the best job serving the absolute best community.  However, the harsh reality is that I cannot completely heal while sitting in this seat, and this amazing district deserves the most from its leader.  I challenge all the new hires each year that if they cannot give every ounce of their being to the students they serve, then be honest with yourself and step away because the work is too important.  Well, I would be a hypocrite if I did not take my own advice, so here we are.  I feel extremely fortunate to have served this community for 18 years in a state where the average tenure for the superintendent is about 3 years.  I guess it is customary to list the accomplishments of what I am proudest of during my tenure here in Prosper, but honestly I feel more grateful than proud – grateful for the opportunity to serve the students and families of PISD – grateful for the grace when I have fallen short of your expectations – grateful for the thoughts and prayers since day one but particularly after my accident – grateful for the love shown to me and my family during the many challenges we have faced together – and eternally grateful for a moment in time “I” got to be a part of “WE” are Prosper.

I have been very fortunate to serve with numerous board members during my time in Prosper who have never compromised their collective position on “best for kids”.  The board will begin the process to name a replacement who will be equally committed to all things PISD.  The District will no doubt be confronted with many challenges in the fall with opening three new schools while managing the particulars surrounding Covid-19.  The Board has asked and I have agreed to stay on for an appropriate time to assist with the leadership transition.  I would be lying if I didn’t say this is a very emotional decision for me, but I keep reminding myself of the immortal words of the great philosopher Dr. Seuss, “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.”  

To say thank you seems so inadequate… but thank you all.  For one last time and maybe because I don’t know if I know how to end a message any other way, always continue to soar with pride and remember, WE ARE PROSPER! 

Thank you for allowing me to serve,

Drew Watkins