Superintendent Christy Perry announced her plan to retire at the end of the 2022-23 school year during Tuesday night’s work session meeting with the Salem-Keizer School Board of Directors. Perry asked the school board to begin the process to search for the next superintendent of Salem-Keizer Public Schools.
Below is an excerpt from Superintendent Perry’s letter to district staff about the announcement.
In life there are seasons, and as I enter my 19th year as an Oregon superintendent, I believe it’s time to plan for the next season – my next season and the next season for SKPS.
I love what I do and can easily see myself doing this work for another five years, yet I believe this is the right time to make this decision. I trust our leaders and know the district has strong people who will help our entire community navigate this transition.
Planning to leave hurts my heart, but it also makes my heart happy for what is next for SKPS and for my family. I think being a bit brokenhearted is healthy and means a person loves what they do even if it’s the right time to do something else.
Allowing time for a selection process feels like the right choice for the district, and honestly for me. I’ve committed to board leadership that I will do whatever it takes to assist them as they choose the district’s next leader and will provide any transition that is needed.
Serving our students, staff, families, and community is what energizes me and fills my heart. Please know I love what I do, and I am more committed than ever to the 2022-23 school year.
With appreciation,
Christy