This morning the Woodrow PTA was sent a resignation letter from our principal, Mrs. Cheek. After one year, she is moving back to be a principal at a suburban elementary school, citing her growing family (she is pregnant!). While we are disappointed once again with our lack of committed leadership from both a principal standpoint and the continued changes in Executive Directors, Woodrow Wilson will continue to be the best comprehensive high school in the DISD. It is incumbent upon all of us as parents and community leaders to unite and remain committed to our teachers and students.
Our trustee, Dustin Marshall, issued a statement via Facebook last night in which he stated: "The district will be coordinating a new Principal Search very quickly, and I will be in touch with further details about that process as they emerge."
Her resignation letter is full of praise for our students, wonderful faculty and staff, parent volunteers, and east Dallas:
Dear Woodrow Wilson Wildcat Students and Families,
It is with mixed emotions that I am writing to let you know that I have tendered my resignation as Woodrow Wilson High School principal, effective June 26, 2018. This was a difficult decision as I have enjoyed my work at Woodrow; however, this decision is best for my growing family. After working closely with the exceptional and dedicated Woodrow Wilson Faculty and Staff, we implemented systems and programs that will help students reach new levels of achievement. From realigning the academies to House Bill 5, to creating a course catalogue with a school-wide scheduling day, creating a partnership with Richland College by offering Dual Credit opportunities for the 2018-2019 school year to any junior and senior that qualifies as well as joining the Dallas County Promise Cohort 2 where graduating seniors are eligible for free tuition for 3 years at a Dallas Community College we accomplished many great things this year! I have thoroughly enjoyed serving Woodrow as the principal as well as I have been proud as a member in the feeder pattern for the past 5 years. It has been an incredible experience to be a part of this esteemed organization and participate in the long-standing traditions as well as working with the community in building a vision for the future of Woodrow. I am even more proud of what the faculty and staff have accomplished academically and in extracurricular activities. Finally, I want to express a special thanks to the Woodrow Wilson families. I will always appreciate your commitment to education and children — along with the countless efforts you extend to enhance our school. You exemplify the importance of a strong partnership between home and school.
Fondly, Roxanne Cheek
Rated in the 2018 US News and World Report as a national silver high school, with top Robotics teams, largest Dance Academy in DISD (over 200 members), top Debate team, #1 Band in 5A DISD including best Band director, tops in NHS members, tops in Sweethearts Drill Team (100 members), the only International Baccalaureate program in DISD, amazing feats in all athletics (football, golf, swim, basketball, soccer, softball, baseball, tennis, track, cross country, wrestling, rowing, volleyball, cheerleading), 24 Big Tex scholarships, over the top Musicals, generous neighborhood and WW Alumni support including WW Foundation scholarships, largest Food Pantry; topping it off with all students giving back to their community, and more, whew!!--Woodrow has so much to be proud of. Now let's find that special principal and make them sign a 5-year contract!!! :-)