Once a warrior, always a warrior. Superintendent Patricia Morris officially retired from the Stillwater Central School District on Thursday, Feb. 8 after more than 30 years of service. Passionate about the district and local community, she began her career in 1992 as a substitute teacher and held various positions over the course of her tenure including sixth grade teacher, dean of students, assistant middle school principal, and principal of Stillwater Middle School.

“Blessed. That’s how I feel when someone asks about spending my career in the same district. I have had a chance to grow, learn and be a member of an amazing school community. I would not change a thing,” said Superintendent Morris.

With each position, Superintendent Morris’s primary focus remained the same: to help all students succeed and reach their goals. Expansion in career pathways, learning experiences and community involvement created new opportunities for student success, and Superintendent Morris is proud of the positive impact it has had on Stillwater students.

“It is always about the children. They shine best when we put them first and they know who holds them up. Our team of school employees in every grade and every department puts children first. I love that, and I’m so happy to have been able to spend the last thirty years working with and for children,” she said.

As Superintendent Morris embarks on her next journey, she’s confident Stillwater will continue to thrive and be a place where every student has the opportunity to succeed.

“Though my time as superintendent has ended, I will always be a warrior. And to that end, this warrior offers her school family to the next leader, Mr. Mariano, who is eager to begin his tenure and bring SCSD to new places. Though I will miss everyone, I am happy to leave the district in such competent, caring hands,” she said.