Join us in saying farewell, and in sharing appreciation to Superintendent Dr. Drati.
We invite you to sign SMMPTA’s online Farewell & Thank You Card. Submissions due before noon Dec 15, 2022.
A farewell from Santa Monica-Malibu Council of PTAs President, Erika Bell
Our community was surprised by the news that SMMUSD Superintendent, Dr. Drati, will be leaving after this semester. Many found the news difficult to hear because of how highly revered he is, both by those whose children have been impacted by him and those who have worked with him. His passion for public education and his drive to improve access to it for all children and youth were evident. It was obviously a tough decision for him as well, which he made apparent at our recent SMMPTA Council Holiday Breakfast when he gave an emotional and heartfelt farewell speech.
Those who talk about Dr. Drati describe him as authentic, genuine, happy, a good guy, a great leader, and exactly what this district needed, especially with the covid whirlwind that tried to never end. He worked hard to keep our kids safe through covid, get our schools open, and keep them open. He led during a time when many others would have given up or paused on progress. Somehow, he still managed to keep a positive attitude and a good sense of humor through any challenge.
During his tenure, Dr. Drati stayed passionate about public education and a desire to help this community. He remained dedicated to growing and evolving to fit the needs of our students and families, listening and showing that he valued our voices. He advocated when necessary and took action when he could.
Dr. Drati has been a great partner to our Santa Monica-Malibu Council of PTAs. He attended nearly every SMMPTA Council meeting, giving reports so we were kept up-to-date and patiently answering our questions. He encouraged district staff to attend both council and unit meetings and maintain good relationships with us.
We hope that Dr. Drati realizes he is highly respected and admired throughout this district. We are sad to see him go, but excited that he has an opportunity to impact another community in a profound way. We thank him and wish him well on this next chapter.
