BOZEMAN – Bozeman School District Superintendent Rob Watson is talking about his move to Missoula after accepting an offer to become the head of public education for the Garden City.
“It was a hard decision. I honestly approached the decision in a couple of different ways. What was best for my family and transitions are always hard, so we discussed that quite a bit,” Watson told MTN News.
“Also looking at what was best for me professionally and personally. I’m the type of individual that really enjoys continually trying to push myself and challenge myself,” he added.
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The Montana native has been the head and heart of Bozeman public schools since 2012.
Watson’s major accomplishments during his superintendent career have included planning for a second Bozeman high school and passing the bond, along with educational initiatives such as the Reading One.
“What I’ll miss the most is the people that I work with and the people I have met in the community because that has definitely been a highlight,” Watson said.
“I think Bozeman is very lucky to have a lot of high-quality professionals that work in the school district and its been an honor for me to work with those people,” he continued.
While his new job in Missoula will give him the challenge he’s looking for, Watson hopes to also alleviate some challenges that the district may already be facing.
“What I’m most looking forward to is getting to know the people of Missoula and talking to various folks about successes and challenges, and how I can help with some of the challenges they might have.”
Transition isn’t always easy but Watson says he’s assured that the Bozeman School District is in a good spot.
“Change can be really healthy — not only for the individual but for the organization — and so I honestly think even though it might not be the best time to leave, a change in this position can be very healthy for the organization. So i’m encouraged by that too,” he concluded.
Watson received his Doctorate at the University of Montana, served as a middle school principal and Sentinel High School principal before moving to Bozeman. He’ll begin his new job in Missoula on July first.
-Emma Hamilton reporting for MTN News
