Principal Dr. Watson Builds Positive Culture, Relationships At East
Source: https://www.ccsoh.us/
Principal Dr. Kelvin Watson of East High School values the start of the school year, particularly the tradition of a welcoming clap-in line where staff, families, alumni, and community partners greet students. He believes that positive connections are crucial in education. Dr. Watson began his career with Columbus City Schools in 2020 at Eastgate Elementary before moving to East High School. He has a diverse background, having earned a Bachelor of Education from the University of Akron and worked as a police officer for over a decade after being hired by the Akron Police Department in 1985.
After returning to Miami and struggling to find a law enforcement position, Dr. Kelvin Watson utilized his education degree in various roles at Miami-Dade Public Schools, such as career specialist and reading coach. He later served in multiple administrative roles in North Carolina’s Moore County School District before returning to Ohio as a high school assistant principal.
Dr. Watson sees parallels between education and law enforcement in building relationships with communities. He holds a Master of Science in Education and a Doctorate of Education, which he believes enriches his ability to connect with students and guide them toward opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of sharing stories to foster connections and provide support to students.
Dr. Kelvin Watson connects with students and staff through supportive conversations and emphasizes high expectations, with this year’s mantra at East High School being “reclaiming excellence.” The school has a rich history, with notable alumni like Judge Robert Duncan, who played a key role in desegregating Columbus Public Schools, Senator Herchel Craig, and Ann B. Walker, a trailblazer in broadcast management. Dr. Watson believes East students can achieve similar excellence and has outlined a three-part strategy to do so: providing high-quality instruction, maintaining high expectations, and fostering a positive learning environment. He aims to restore the school’s legacy of excellence.
Area Superintendent Dr. Sandy Womack commended Dr. Kelvin Watson for fostering a positive learning environment at East High School since his arrival. He has worked with alumni to revive school traditions like homecoming and pep rallies, and under his leadership, the school won its first OHSAA Football Playoffs in 2022.
Dr. Watson also introduced the Patient-Centered Care course, enhancing the curriculum and allowing the school to offer three pathway courses in Health Sciences. More ninth and tenth graders are now advancing to the upper grades, and Dr. Womack praised Dr. Watson’s high expectations and positive mindset. He emphasizes good customer service and ensures that students feel welcomed and supported, helping them overcome barriers they face in their lives.
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