Superintendent Matt Robbins did a double take as the room began to fill unexpectedly halfway through the Daviess County Public Schools Board of Education meeting on Thursday. Robbins’ family surprised him with a visit during his final evaluation, as he’s retiring after 7 years leading the district.
“Serving as superintendent of the Daviess County Public Schools has been the professional joy of a lifetime. We have accomplished much together in the last 7 years, and this was made possible by many great people throughout our organization committed to our ‘Kids First’ mission,” Robbins said. “I have been blessed to work for five amazing school board members who love DCPS and are devoted to continuous progress. Personally, I am ready for the next life chapter, but my heart and soul will always remain with the Daviess County Public Schools.”
Each year the board evaluates Robbins on select categories of their following seven standards of leadership: Strategic, Instructional, Cultural, Human Resource, Managerial, Collaborative, and Influential. This year, Robbins was evaluated on the first three, and he was given an exemplary rating.
Board Chair James Morgan read a long list of accomplishments by Robbins and the district as a whole under his guidance.
“Mr. Robbins has led DCPS to its strongest financial position in over two decades. Under his leadership, the district maintains a very high bonding capacity despite ongoing construction projects. He facilitated the purchase of a building to consolidate the DCPS central office, learning center, and technology staff, which will provide essential space for district collaboration and professional development upon its completion,” Morgan said in a prepared statement.
Morgan noted that as president of the Council for Better Education, Robbins advocates for increased funding for Kentucky’s public schools and the rights of all Kentucky students to receive a high-quality public education.
“He exemplifies the DCPS Strategic Plan, ensuring that the ‘Kids First’ principle guides all decision-making,” Morgan said.
Morgan said that DCPS has made “significant strides” in closing the achievement gap for Special Education and English Learner students; that all grade levels have seen improved proficiency in reading, writing, and social studies; and that the district has improved KSA scores, with 13 out of 14 schools achieving proficiency or higher.
Morgan added that Robbins “is highly regarded among his peers, with many superintendents seeking his expertise in district finances. He leads sessions at the annual KSBA Conference and mentors new superintendents throughout Kentucky.”
Robbins has upheld the tradition of the DCPS Opening Day Ceremony, bringing together all staff the day before the new school year begins.
“This year’s theme, ‘Believe,’ was chosen by Superintendent Robbins to inspire staff to believe in themselves, their students, and the work that they do every day. Under his leadership, the district has seen remarkable achievements,” Morgan said. “… Mr. Robbins is a strong advocate for the arts in schools, supporting the Fine Arts Festival, which showcases student creativity, and celebrating a record number of KMEA musicians. He prioritizes diversity and inclusion in every decision, evidenced by the creation of the Juntos club to connect the Hispanic community, including students and their families.”
Board member Tom Payne spoke directly to Robbins during the meeting, giving a heartfelt sendoff.
“Your dedication, your vision, and your tireless efforts have profoundly impacted Daviess County Public Schools,” he said. “Over the years your leadership and your vision has led us to new educational heights creating an atmosphere where people want to work. Seven years ago we set out to hire a new superintendent, and we did. But what we really did was find a lifelong friend. Matt, thank you for your lifelong, unwavering commitment to making a lasting difference in so many lives.”
Robbins, who announced his retirement in January, said the credit lies with the staff at all levels, and he’s confident the district will continue to move forward under incoming Superintendent Charles Broughton.
“I believe we are on a path to continue great success on behalf of our community’s children. I have the utmost confidence that Mr. Broughton will lead us to new and greater heights,” Robbins said. “Our community is blessed to have great schools that are committed to what is best for our kids. I’m looking forward to becoming the best cheerleader and supporter possible as I know great things are on the horizon for the Daviess County Public Schools.”
