On Tuesday, the Leeds City Schools Board of Education honored a woman who has dedicated more than half of her life to the children of our city: Mrs. Kathy Dutton. Mrs. Dutton’s legacy in Leeds is legendary. She spent 29 years in the classroom—27 of those at Leeds Elementary—where she shaped generations of students (including our own Mr. Moore!). But her retirement from teaching was just the beginning of her service. For the last 18 years, she has served as a powerhouse on our School Board.

If you’ve ever attended a board meeting, you know her "North Star." Before every vote and every decision, Mrs. Dutton asks one simple, vital question:

Under the board's leadership during her 18-year tenure, Leeds City Schools has undergone a total transformation:

-$65 Million Invested: Major renovations and new buildings across the district, including the opening of Leeds Primary in 2016 and new Board Office in 2020.

-School Finance: We’ve gone from a negative fund balance to $13 million. 

-Graduation Rates: A monumental climb from a 59% graduation rate to over 95%!

-Enhanced Opportunities for all students: The implementation of the Academy of Craft Training and AP courses to prepare students for any path they choose.

As Mrs. Dutton looked back during her final board meeting, she said it best: "Look at all we have done." Mrs. Dutton, you are a champion for our students, a champion for our schools, and the definition of a "Leeds Girl." Our district is infinitely better because you chose to lead.

Thank you for making Leeds great. In the words of Mr. Moore, we won’t say goodbye, but rather "Hasta luego." We look forward to seeing you exactly where you belong—in the stands on Friday nights, cheering on the Greenwave!