MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) – The man credited with straightening out Montgomery Public Schools’ finances is moving on to provide similar services for the state school system.
Arthur Watts has joined the Alabama State Department of Education as the new deputy state superintendent of education for administration and finance.
Watts has been the Montgomery district’s chief school financial officer for the last six years, helping to resolve concerns brought about when the system was under state intervention. More recently, he helped the system win a much-needed property tax increase.
“Having been at the school on the administrative front, understanding what teachers need, what counselors need, what principals need and what the administrative staff needs, I think I bring a really good understanding to that, and hopefully I can share that with Dr. Mackey and the various departments, along with the board,” said Watts.
I know he;’s got the skills, he’s got the background, he’s got a great personality, and I look forward to working with him on a day=to-day basis.” said state Superintendent Eric Mackey.
Montgomery Public Schools sent a statement on Watts’ new job. Superintendent Melvin Brown said, “I am thrilled to congratulate our Chief School Financial Officer (CSFO), Mr. Arthur Watts, on receiving an outstanding job offer from the Alabama State Department of Education. This new opportunity is a testament to his exceptional skills, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence in financial stewardship and the students of MPS. Throughout his tenure with our district, Mr. Watts has played a pivotal role in ensuring the fiscal health and stability of our district. His departure leaves a significant void, and it will not be easy to find someone who can match his expertise and dedication. However, we are confident that he will continue to be a strong advocate for our school system.”
School Board President Brenda DeRamus-Coleman said, “While we will undoubtedly miss Mr. Watts’s expertise and contributions, we are incredibly proud of his achievements and this well-deserved advancement. We wish him the very best as he embarks on this exciting new chapter with the State Department.”
Watts will start his new role with the state on Nov. 1.
It is not yet clear who will take over as Montgomery Public Schools’ new chief school financial officer.
Sign up for the WSFA Newsletter and get the latest local news and breaking alerts in your email!
Copyright 2024 WSFA. All rights reserved.
