Nixon Elementary School's Principal Announces Retirement

Barbara Welch, principal at Nixon Elementary School, recently announced her plan to retire at the end of this school year. In her letter to the Nixon community, Ms. Welch mentioned that she had a number of personal interests that she was looking forward to in the retirement phase of her life--

spending more time with her grandchildren, traveling, and playing a bit more golf than she can currently fit into her schedule. On a professional level, she expects to focus some energy on her interests in early childhood education.

Ms. Welch has served as the Nixon principal for the past eleven years. Her hiring in 1997 brought her full circle--back to PAUSD, where she received her secondary schooling. Prior to returning to her roots, she worked for many years in the Clovis Unified School District as both teacher and administrator.

The search for Ms. Welch's replacement is well underway. Job announcements are posted on electronic job boards and in education publications. Dr. Scott Bowers, Assistant Superintendent for HR, has met with staff and parents to gather their input on the strengths and needs of the school. Over the next month, the school will form a joint committee composed of staff and parents to interview candidates and provide Dr. Kevin Skelly, Superintendent, with input for his selection of the next principal for Nixon.

The Nixon Community and PAUSD wish Barbara all the best in her retirement and will certainly miss her leadership.