News release
WATERTOWN, NY – Watertown City School District is delighted to announce the appointment of Mrs. Leslie Atkinson as the Interim Principal of Watertown High School, effective July 22, 2023.
Following the new appointment of our former High School Principal, Mrs. Atkinson has been selected to provide strong and seamless leadership during this interim period. With her wealth of experience and expertise, we are confident in Mrs. Atkinson’s ability to guide our school community through this transition and maintain our commitment to excellence.
Mrs. Atkinson brings years of experience and a deep understanding of our school’s culture and values. She has been an integral part of our educational community, serving as Principal and making significant contributions to student achievement and overall school development. Mrs. Atkinson’s proven leadership skills and dedication to our students’ success make her an ideal candidate for this interim role. During her tenure as Interim High School Principal, Mrs. Atkinson will oversee the day-to-day operations of the high school, ensuring a smooth continuation of educational programs, extracurricular activities, and student support services as we prepare for the opening of the 2023-24 school year. She will work closely with our talented faculty and staff, fostering collaboration and providing guidance to maintain a positive and enriching learning environment.
As an experienced educator, Mrs. Atkinson understands the unique needs of our students and is committed to their academic, social, and emotional growth. She will continue to uphold our school’s high standards of excellence, promote a culture of inclusivity and respect, and support the professional development of our dedicated staff.
“I am honored and excited to serve as the Interim High School Principal at Watertown High School,” said Mrs. Atkinson. “I am committed to maintaining the exceptional learning environment our school community has built, and I look forward to working collaboratively with students, parents, and staff to ensure a successful transition period.”
Mrs. Atkinson is a graduate of St. Lawrence University, Canton, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Leadership. In addition, she holds a Master of Science in Journalism from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communication at Syracuse University. She is well-versed in educational best practices, curriculum development, and student-centered instruction. Her passion for education and dedication to fostering a positive school culture will be invaluable during this transitional phase.
The Watertown City School District community is grateful for Mrs. Atkinson’s willingness to assume this vital role and is confident in her ability to lead with integrity and excellence. We extend our sincere congratulations and support to Mrs. Atkinson as she takes on this important responsibility.