Calvin Watts

Dr. Calvin J. Watts was named superintendent of Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) on July 30, 2021. A former GCPS leader, he rejoined the district having served as superintendent of Kent School District (KSD), the fifth largest and the second most diverse school district in Washington State. In his six-year tenure at KSD, Dr. Watts developed a bold strategic planning process and maintained an intentional focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging so that all students may thrive. KSD’s four-year adjusted cohort graduation rates rose to record levels for all students as a result.Dr. Watts is a member of The Broad Academy Fellowship (2018-2019) and has demonstrated a strong track record of success as an instructional, operational, and community leader. He is a member of the American Association of School Administrators (AASA) American Rescue Plan Committee, working with 40 other superintendents to consult U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona on the effective and efficient use of American Rescue Plan funding. He has presented regionally and nationally on a number of topics including equity, personalized learning, and parent engagement. In 2017, he was named Educator of the Year by the City of Kent Chamber of Commerce.Dr. Watts earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Howard University. He later earned a master’s degree in administration and supervision from the University of West Georgia, and his doctorate in educational leadership from Argosy University.