Tulsa Public Schools is preparing for a major leadership transition as Deputy Superintendent Dr. Kathy Dodd announced she will leave the district at the end of the month to take on a national position with YMCA of the USA.
Dr. Ebony Johnson shared the news in a letter to employees, expressing deep appreciation for Dodd’s leadership, expertise, and unwavering commitment to students.
“I am sharing her message below with my heartfelt gratitude for the invaluable contributions and many ways Dr. Dodd has helped shape and guide our work – and for the path she has helped to pave for our continued success,” said Dr. Johnson. “I believe we are a stronger district as a result of her commitment to our schools, our shared work, and most importantly to our students. Thank you, Dr. Dodd, for believing in TPS and our young people!”
In her own message, Dodd described the decision as bittersweet. She said she is excited to serve as Vice President of Educational Partnerships and Business Development for YMCA of the USA, but leaving TPS and the people she has worked closely with is difficult. Dodd thanked Dr. Johnson, Cabinet colleagues, and staff across the district for their partnership and collaboration.
“Together, we have made meaningful gains in student achievement and engagement, athletics, accreditation, postsecondary readiness, operations, and budget,” said Dodd. “None of that work belonged to a single team. It required people across the organization to step beyond their individual areas, solve problems together, and remain focused on what is best for students and schools.”
She said she is proud of what TPS has achieved during her nearly four years with the district and grateful for the opportunity to serve during such an important time. Dodd added that she hopes to stay connected in Tulsa and invited colleagues to reach out if she can ever be of assistance.
Dr. Dodd’s final day with Tulsa Public Schools is expected to be on September 30th.
