Tony Watlington

Dr. Tony B. Watlington Sr. is the Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, the nation's eighth-largest school district, serving nearly 200,000 students. Since assuming the role in 2022, he has led a bold, collaborative transformation focused on educational excellence, equity, and measurable student outcomes. Through an extensive listening tour, a community-driven transition process, and an ambitious five-year strategic plan, Dr. Watlington has positioned the district as one of the fastest-improving large urban school systems in the country. Under his leadership, Philadelphia has earned national recognition for significant gains in student achievement, outpacing many peer districts in mathematics and reading according to the Harvard and Stanford Education Recovery Scorecard. 

Prior to Philadelphia, Dr. Watlington served as superintendent of Rowan-Salisbury Schools in North Carolina, where he championed competency-based education, whole-child learning, and innovative strategies that dramatically improved literacy, school growth, and career readiness. He also served as Chief of Schools for Guilford County Schools, helping improve academic outcomes, graduation rates, teacher satisfaction, and student engagement across one of North Carolina's largest school districts. A first-generation college graduate, former Teacher of the Year, and nationally respected educational leader, Dr. Watlington remains committed to building high-performing, equitable school systems that create life-changing opportunities for every student. His leadership continues to inspire educators nationwide through a steadfast commitment to collaboration, innovation, and student success.