[dropcap]H[/dropcap]ays CISD leaders earlier this month approved the hiring of Dr. Michael Watson as the new principal for Dahlstrom Middle School.
Watson, who was hired by the district in 2014 as the principal of Live Oak Academy, oversaw a rise in the graduating class at the alternative high school. On average, the campus graduated roughly 40 students per year. In 2017, Live Oak graduated 174 students, which is the largest class in school history.
“He has a winning spirit, incredible talent, and second-to-none passion about students and teamwork,” said Hays CISD Public Information Officer Tim Savoy. “I know the Dahlstrom community will love Dr. Watson and great things are on the horizon for the Mustangs.”
Before joining Hays CISD, Watson was the director of alternative education for Gregory-Portland ISD in Corpus Christi. In that role, he successfully designed and implemented effective academic alternative education programs for secondary students.
Watson began his education career while also serving as a squad leader in the United States Army Reserves. His first teaching job was in the Alice Independent School District, where he was also a coach.
“I firmly believe that student achievement is directly proportional to a committed and talented staff, dynamic school leadership, strong parental involvement, and a supportive and generous community. I look forward to organizing our team and beginning the process of hearing the voices of all of our stakeholders to best meet the needs of the Dahlstrom Middle School students,” said Watson in his introductory letter to Dahlstrom parents and teachers.
Dr. Watson earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D., all from Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi.
Among his many military honors, Dr. Watson has earned two Army commendation medals. One medal for exceptionally meritorious service in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, and the second for exceptional achievement while supporting missions to secure Camp Arifjan from possible terrorist actions during wartime operations.
He is married to Amy and has two daughters, Mayan and Avery.
