Princeton Superintendent To Retire At The End Of School Year

PRINCETON, NJ — Princeton Schools Superintendent Steve Cochrane announced on Monday that he will be retiring at the end of this school year, effective June 30.

"For the past six years, I have had the incredible honor to serve the students, the staff, and the families of the Princeton Public Schools," Cochrane wrote in a letter to parents. " I have also had the privilege of working with some remarkable community partners who care deeply about our kids. Together we have faced some daunting challenges, and together we have produced some profound changes. I am proud that as a community, we have shifted the direction of our District and charted a course towards wellness, racial literacy, and a vision of success for our children that is grounded in joy and purpose."

Cochrane's retirement is linked to his decision to move closer to his mom who is now in her 90s and living on her own in his hometown of Seattle.

"I am also hopeful I can find a way to return to the roots of my career in higher education and take what I have learned over the last four decades to help prepare future teachers and principals," Cochrane said.

Prior to serving in Princeton Public Schools, Cochrane served as a dean at Princeton University and also taught elementary school in another town.

Although Cochrane is retiring he noted there is still much to do in the coming months.

"I am determined to finish this school year strong. We have a budget to balance, contracts to settle, and the future of our schools to plan. We also have our daily commitment to knowing, supporting, and inspiring every one of our students."

The Board will soon begin the process of hiring a new or interim superintendent.

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