Tumwater superintendent announces resignation amid staffing reductions, budget cuts
The superintendent of the Tumwater School District has announced that he is resigning from his position at the end of June.
Sean Dotson has been in the position since July 2019. He announced in a message to staff and families that he will be taking a position as Human Resources Director with North Thurston Public Schools in Lacey.
Dotson became superintendent just a year after Tumwater teachers went on strike for a new contract and better pay, and his time at the helm has been rocky. In October 2021 he received a letter from district leaders questioning his leadership abilities and asking that he resign. He also was blamed for the district’s budget shortfall of $4 million.
In his message sent out May 13, Dotson said it’s been an honor to lead the district, despite all the challenges.
“While the decision to move on is a difficult one, there are times in life when we all need to reevaluate our priorities, pursue work that best matches our interests and passions, and put first the people and relationships that are most important to us,” he said in his message.
Casey Taylor, Tumwater school board president, said the board will act on his resignation at their May 26 meeting.
Dotson declined an interview with The Olympian.
In his letter, Dotson said throughout his career in education his mission has been to make a positive difference in the lives of students.
“As both a parent and an educator, I want you to know how much I appreciate your commitment, dedication and hard work in support of the children we serve,” he said. “It has been a privilege partnering with you in that effort.”
This story was originally published May 19, 2022 at 1:17 PM.
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