Easton, Redding, and Region 9 Superintendent Dr. Rydell Harrison notified the Boards of Education of the three districts of his intent to resign on June 25. The three boards will discuss a process for appointing a new superintendent at a special joint meeting on June 30.
Dr. Harrison served the three districts through the reopening of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. His contract was renewed by the boards earlier this month but he has chosen to step away from the superintendency to pursue another opportunity.
“Throughout my leadership career, I have worked hard to approach my work as a student-centered educator first and an administrator second,” Dr. Harrison said of his decision. “Rather than continuing forward as the superintendent, I have decided to pursue opportunities outside of a traditional K-12 setting that will allow me to fully engage my passion for education and commitment to improving outcomes for all students without the heavy burdens of district administration.”
Jon Stinson, chair of the Easton Board of Education said, “While we are deeply saddened to lose such a dedicated and talented educational leader, we recognize the immense challenges of the past year and wish Dr. Harrison every success as he explores a new chapter in his career.”
“The board and I are disheartened by the news of Dr. Harrison’s resignation,” said Todd Johnston, chair of the Region 9 Board of Education. “It was an action- packed first year for him dealing with COVID prevention, retirement of building heads, DEI program launch, and navigating our three-district model. We thank him for his leadership and unwavering focus on the students, teachers, administration and parents throughout it all. It has been a pleasure to work with Dr. Harrison, and the board and I wish him well in his next opportunity.”
“Our schools were fortunate to benefit from Dr. Harrison’s leadership through this extraordinary year,” said Chris Parkin, chair of the Redding Board of Education. “While I am disappointed by his decision, I understand it. Dr. Harrison’s resignation is a testament to his commitment to focusing on the needs of students and I expect nothing but continued success in his career.”
