Chamber President Weighs in on Hatrick Retirement

On Wednesday, Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce President Tony Howard offered the following comments on the retirement of Loudoun County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Edgar Hatrick III:

“I am saddened to hear that Ed Hatrick has decided to retire after the coming school year.  Since he first started in Loudoun County Schools as an English Teacher back in 1967, Ed Hatrick has constantly challenging students and teachers to always strive for better.  And under his leadership as Superintendent, Loudoun’s schools have risen to become one of the best school systems in the country in terms of providing a quality education."

Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) had an on-time graduation rate of 95.1 percent for the class of 2012, 7.1 percent above the state average. All of Loudoun’s high schools had a graduation rate at or above the statewide rate.  In addition, during the past five years, the average LCPS SAT score has risen 15 points. During the same time period the average Virginia score has dropped two points and the average national score nine points.

“We have a year to find a new School Superintendent, but the truth is that no matter how strong the candidates, no one will ever truly be able to replace Dr. Hatrick.  As the father of a student in Loudoun’s schools I commend him for his service to our kids and I wish him all the best in his coming retirement."

[The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce is the “voice of business” on behalf of its more than 1,200 members on issues that impact the economy and quality of life in Loudoun County.  To learn more about the Chamber Policy Position on Education click here.]