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May 09, 2024
Kent County, Maryland - The Chester River Yacht and Country Club was filled with warmth and gratitude as friends, colleagues, and community members gathered to honor the distinguished career of Dr. Karen Couch, Superintendent of Kent County Public Schools. The Career and Retirement Soiree, hosted by the Kent County Public Schools Education Foundation Fund, was a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Couch's decades of service and leadership in education.
The evening commenced with a gracious welcome from Dan Divilio, setting the tone for an evening of reflection and celebration. Pastor Leon Frision offered a heartfelt blessing before dinner, acknowledging Dr. Couch's profound impact on the lives of students and educators throughout her career. Adding to the festivities, the Kent County High School Jazz Band delivered a mesmerizing musical performance, showcasing the talent and vibrancy of the district's students.
Dr. Karen Couch's journey in education began in 1980 as a dedicated teacher in New Mexico. Her passion for learning and unwavering commitment to excellence propelled her through various leadership roles, culminating in her appointment as Superintendent of Kent County Public Schools in 2013.
Throughout her tenure, Dr. Couch's visionary leadership has transformed the educational landscape of Kent County. Under her guidance, the district has witnessed significant advancements in student achievement, innovation in teaching practices, and a steadfast commitment to equity and inclusion.
As Dr. Couch prepares to retire on July 1st, the evening served as an opportunity to express gratitude for her tireless dedication and to celebrate the profound impact she has made on generations of students and educators.
In the spirit of giving back, proceeds from the celebration will go to the Kent County Public Schools Education Foundation Fund. This fund supports school field trips and provides essential resources through teacher mini-grants, ensuring that Dr. Couch's legacy of excellence continues to enrich the lives of students well into the future.
In her letter to the Kent County Public Schools community announcing her retirement, Dr. Couch reflectively wrote, "As I begin a new chapter, I know that our work has laid a strong foundation for continued student success. The legacy of our efforts is not in the programs we’ve started or the facilities we’ve renovated, but in the lives of the students we’ve touched. I am confident that KCPS will continue to nurture and inspire every child who walks through its doors, and I eagerly anticipate hearing about their future successes."
As Dr. Couch embarks on the next chapter of her life, her legacy of leadership and commitment to educational excellence will continue to inspire and uplift all who have had the privilege of working alongside her.
Source: Kent County Public Schools