On Wednesday, January 6, Dr. Karen Cheser, superintendent of Fort Thomas Independent Schools (FTIS) sent an email announcing her retirement. Cheser’s retirement will be effective as of June 30, 2021, the last day of the 2020-2021 academic year. 

     After four years as superintendent, Cheser cites the pension system as her reason for retirement, believing it does not make financial sense to stay four more years as she had hoped. However, during her time as FTIS superintendent, Cheser has advanced the district in several ways, from crafting and implementing “Portrait of a Graduate” to providing students, teachers, and community members with resources such as “Launch.” Additionally, Cheser has also led the district through a global pandemic, working tirelessly with state and local health experts to plan a safe return to school and even providing a remote learning option. 

     “In Fort Thomas, we truly have the best and brightest, not only in our classrooms and hallways but with community support that is second to none,” Cheser said in an FTIS press release. “Serving as superintendent of this wonderful district has been the honor of my career and I am so thankful for everything that we have accomplished together.”

     Cheser has contributed greatly to the Fort Thomas community and her leadership will be missed. Over the next several months, she will work alongside the Board to find a replacement, and progress will be communicated along the way.