After two years on the job, Visalia Unified School District Superintendent Tamara Ravalin announced Friday that she is retiring, citing health reasons.
Ravalin will continue to serve through Aug. 31, which will mark the last day of a 40-year career in education.
“The last two years have brought enormous opportunities and challenges. Throughout this time, we have come together as a district to serve our students, families, and each other in ways we never thought possible. I am constantly in awe of the way our team has moved forward to open doors for our students and their willingness to examine practices in order to remove barriers to student success, both academically and socially,” Ravalin said in a statement.
“I am grateful and honored to have served the students, families, and staff of Visalia Unified School District during this extraordinary time in our lives. Like many of you, I have used this time to reflect on my family and faith. Over the last few months, I have developed some health challenges, which can be remedied with appropriate medical care and physical therapy. My decision to retire from full-time employment will allow me to take care of myself and my family.”
Ravalin took over as acting superintendent after the school board dumped former superintendent Todd Oto.
The board lifted the “acting” title in January of last year.
Ravalin joined the district in 2013 and served as the Assistant Superintendent of Visalia Unified Human Resources Development.
Before she joined the district, Ravalin served as the Dean of Student Service at College of the Sequoias and Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services for Kings County Office of Education.
“I would like to thank Dr. Tamara Ravalin for navigating Visalia Unified School District during these unprecedented times. Her leadership, attention to detail, and integrity have been an asset to the Board of Education, staff students, and the school community,” School Board President Juan Guerrero said in a statement.
“The School Board would like to wish Dr. Ravalin well in her retirement and appreciate her service and dedication to our school district.”
