Dear Watertown Public Schools Community,
Dr. Ramos’ term as Interim Superintendent has come to a close as of Tuesday, December 15th, 2020. While Covid-19 has ended his time with us just a little earlier than anticipated, Dr. Ramos is doing well. We are grateful for his service to Watertown Public Schools at such a critical and transitional time in our district. Dr. Ramos took the reins when we needed him most and immediately provided a stabilizing force during extraordinary circumstances. Given the pandemic and its impact on our community, Dr. Ramos had to make critical decisions from day one, and he did so with integrity and thoughtful expertise. He immediately focused on partnering with our leadership team to provide comprehensive guidance on the re-opening of our schools. His dedication to our students, staff and families was nothing short of incredible, and he did not allow anything to compromise the safety and well being of our community. We thank Dr. Ramos for everything he gave to us in his service to Watertown Public Schools and wish him only the best in the years to come.
An interim superintendent is necessary to maintain all district functions in a proper and seamless manner, and we are pleased to report that this evening the Board of Education appointed Watertown High School Principal, Dr. Janet Parlato, to fill the role of Interim Superintendent, effective Tuesday, December 15. Dr. Parlato’s breadth of administrative experience will aid in her ability to simultaneously continue in her position as the High School Principal. Prior to her appointment as Watertown High School Principal in July 2019, Dr. Parlato was our Assistant Superintendent and Director of Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment, and Professional Development since August 2013, and she also served as interim superintendent for seven weeks in 2018. Before coming to Watertown, she spent twenty years in the Berlin Public Schools as both a teacher and a building administrator.
Dr. Parlato will provide an effective, seamless transition from December 15 until a new Superintendent begins. We anticipate that the Board will name a new Superintendent at a Special Meeting on Monday, December 21st, 2021, with a start date to be determined.
On behalf of the Board of Education, I thank Dr. Parlato for accepting this responsibility to ensure stability in the district. Your continued support of Watertown Public Schools during these unprecedented times is appreciated.
Leslie Katz Crotty
Chairwoman
Watertown Board of Education
C 860-483-2035