Troy School District Superintendent Barbara Fowler Announces Retirement

Source: Troy School District

After 42 years in education, Dr. Barbara Fowler is announcing her retirement as Superintendent of the Troy School District, effective July 1, 2014. Dr. Fowler has served the District for 31 years in various leadership capacities, including Executive Director for Secondary Instruction, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education, Deputy Superintendent for Instruction and Superintendent since October 2005.

“It has been an honor to work in the Troy School District, with such exemplary students, supportive families and a community that places such a high value on our schools,” said Dr. Fowler, “I have been fortunate to serve our students alongside so many talented administrators, teachers and staff here in Troy and I know this will continue to be a wonderful place to learn and grow. Though I look forward to traveling, spending time with my family and grandchild and pursuing some personal interests, I know I will miss the fine people of this District.”

Under her stewardship, the Troy School District has set the standard for excellence in education and continued in the mission of ensuring learning for all members of the school community. Dr. Fowler has presided over a continual period of increased enrollment in Troy, despite challenging economic conditions that have resulted in significant student declines in surrounding communities.

She leaves behind a fiscally stable district, even in the face of declining state funding for the past several years. Highlights of Dr. Fowler’s career include guiding Troy to become one of the first school districts in Michigan to earn district-wide North Central Association accreditation, initiating a K-12 International Baccalaureate program, as well as achieving national and international recognition. During her tenure, Troy has earned the distinction of being one of the “100 Best Communities in America for Music Education,” our high schools have been named among the nation’s top five- percent of high schools by U.S. News and World Report and ranked in the elite percentiles by the Washington Post.

“Barbara is a phenomenal leader who has been an outstanding asset to the District,” said Board of Education President Nancy Philippart, “She will be greatly missed. We would like to thank her for her many years of exceptional service, and although we are sad to see her retire, we understand her desire to pursue other interests after such a long and distinguished career in the District.

“While she will be difficult to replace, we intend to begin the process in a timely manner and have a superintendent in place before the start of the 2014-15 school year,” said Philippart. “On Tuesday, January 7, the Michigan Association of School Boards will hold a workshop with our Board to advise trustees on the formal selection process. Soon after, we will create a timeline that includes opportunities for community input as we proceed to fill this important vacancy.

“Most of all, we wish Barbara well on her retirement and are grateful for her leadership and friendship over the years. She is a wonderful person and tireless advocate for our students.”