The Pearl Public School District’s Assistant Superintendent of Academic Services, Dr. Kim LaFontaine, has announced her retirement at the end of the 2023-2024 school year, effective June 30, 2024.

 

By the end of this school year, Dr. LaFontaine will have dedicated more than 31 years to the field of education, with 27 years specifically devoted to serving the students, staff, and families of Pearl. Her journey with Pearl Schools began in 1997 when she joined as an English teacher at Pearl High School. In 2010, she transitioned out of the classroom to assume an administrative position at the district office where she was responsible for the areas of curriculum and instruction, personnel, and public relations. Dr. LaFontaine was promoted to Assistant Superintendent in 2014, adding strategic planning and accreditation to her areas of responsibility.

 

"This district—this family—is part of my very being. For nearly three decades it has poured into me, giving me opportunities to grow in how I serve others as an educator and supporting me through some very difficult days,” LaFontaine said. “I have known since the beginning of my journey at Pearl High that this is where my family and I were meant to be. I am so very grateful for the people and moments in Pearl Schools that have profoundly impacted my life."

 

Superintendent Mr. Chris Chism said, "Working with Dr. LaFontaine has been one of the most rewarding professional experiences of my career. Her exceptional skills as an educator stand unparalleled, and it has been an honor to work alongside someone of her caliber. We will miss her as an educator in Pearl, but I will also miss her as a good friend and colleague.”

 

LaFontaine said, "It has truly been an honor and privilege to be a Pearl Pirate."

 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. LaFontaine for her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the students, staff, and families of Pearl. Your impact on our community is immeasurable, and you will be greatly missed.