Putnam superintendent announces retirement after 10 years on the job

Hudson started his career as a fifth- and sixth-grade teacher and then became a middle school principal at Sherman Junior High School in Boone County. In reflecting on his time as a teacher, Hudson recalled how Sherman Junior High became a National Blue Ribbon School and he was invited to visit Washington, D.C. He remembers his students getting to meet President Bill Clinton.

But education, and the students, have changed since then. 

“Obviously, we didn't have cellphones when I was teaching fifth and sixth grade, so that brought a new perspective to education,� he said.

“I think students, they have changed, but I truly believe students of today are even more caring and accepting of others and willing to provide their service in their school communities and in the community in general. Sometimes I think we sell students too short, but I think our students today have realized that importance of caring for each other,� he said.

Under Hudson's leadership, the district passed two excess levies and a $50 million bond levy supporting the construction of a new Hurricane Middle School and improvements to outdoor athletic facilities. In partnership with the board of education, Hudson also secured $30 million from the West Virginia School Building Authority for critical school projects, according to a Putnam County Schools news release.

"It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve Putnam County Schools. None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the support of our community and the tireless efforts of our Board of Education and staff. I am especially proud of our students, whose achievements continue to raise the bar for what is possible," Hudson said in the release.

What's next?

Hudson's last day will be June 30. The Putnam County Board of Education will be tasked with appointing Hudson's replacement, but details about the process were not released as of Tuesday.

Hudson said he looks forward to spending more time with his family, made up of his wife, two daughters, sons-in-law and three grandchildren.

He said he’ll miss the people the most.

“Just those interactions and watching great things happen, seeing smiles on the faces of students when they get recognized for all of their various accomplishments, both academics, performing arts and athletics," he said. "To see that recognition or that appreciation of recognition is something I will miss, I’m sure."