Image courtesy KSDE

Dr. Randy Watson announced he will retire as Kansas Education Commissioner, though he will remain in the role until the Kansas State Board of Education appoints his successor. The board voted to accept his retirement notice, with Chair Cathy Hopkins praising Watson’s dedication to serving Kansas students and educators.

Watson became commissioner in November 2014 after serving as superintendent of McPherson USD 418. His career has also included roles as a teacher, principal, coach, and university faculty member. As commissioner, he advanced the Kansans Can initiative, which focuses on boosting student achievement, strengthening accreditation, improving literacy, redesigning schools, and expanding postsecondary opportunities.

A Coffeyville native, Watson earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in education from Kansas State University. He was named Kansas Superintendent of the Year in 2015 and received the Outstanding Service Award from the United School Administrators of Kansas in 2020. Throughout his tenure, Watson prioritized visiting all 286 school districts multiple times, emphasizing that strong relationships are essential to achieving the goal of leading the world in student success.