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FARMINGTON — On the heels of a federal investigation by the Department of Justice concluding in October 2021 that found "serious and widespread racial harassment" of Black and Asian American students within the Davis School District, district superintendent Reid Newey announced Wednesday that he will retire at the end of the school year.
Newey, an educator for more than 30 years and the district's 18th superintendent, has held the position since Dec. 1, 2016.
"I thank all the outstanding, administrators, teachers and staff in Davis School District, as well as the exceptional School Board members for their support and work over the past 5 years," Newey said in an email to employees. "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as superintendent of Davis School District."
During Newey's tenure, the Davis School District constructed and opened the 10th high school in the district, Farmington High School. Newey was also instrumental in creating the Catalyst Center in Kaysville, which will open its doors to students later this month, according to a news release from the district. The center is part of the nationally recognized Center for Advanced Professional Studies Network and is designed to bring together students, local business and industry mentors, district officials said.
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Newey led a district transition to online learning during the spring 2020 semester by increasing student access to technology and further developing online education strategies, according to a news release from the district.
With Newey at the helm, Davis School District enjoyed the highest graduation rate of Wasatch Front school districts, seeing a 96% graduation rate over his tenure, according to the district.
"The Board of Education would like to express our sincere appreciation to Superintendent Reid Newey for the work he has done on behalf of the students, teachers, staff members, and parents of Davis School District. During his five and half years as superintendent, he has led DSD through some of the most challenging times education has ever faced. Superintendent Newey has worked tirelessly to help our district improve in every area of education. We wish him well in his retirement and again thank him for his devotion to Davis District," Board of Education members said in a statement Wednesday.
Newey was not available for comment as of Wednesday evening. In the meantime, the Board of Education will meet to establish a timeline for the superintendent search.
Newey is a former Utah State basketball player who was a team captain for the Aggies in 1988-89 and later an assistant coach. He played professional basketball in Belgium before beginning his career as an educator.
