JACKSON – It was an emotional night for Northampton County Schools Superintendent Dr. Kathi Gibson as she said goodbye.

On Wednesday, Dr. Gibson officially announced she is retiring from her position after a little less than three years with the district.

Dr. Gibson asked each of the Central Office staff as well as the district’s principals to stand as she began her farewells.

“I want to publicly say to each one of you, thank you,” she said. “I want the board to know how valuable you are. I really want them to support you. You are a marketable crew.”

She stated the staff could call her anytime and she was stronger because they had passed her way.

“I have enjoyed my stay at Northampton County Schools,” she said. “I don’t walk away with any ill feelings or regrets.”

Dr. Gibson also noted that while not everyone has understood her philosophies, she has always done what’s right.

“I learned long ago when you do what’s right you can go home and sleep at night,” she said. “I have never had a sleepless night.”

She said to the Board of Education members that they all knew what they had gone through as a board and even though there were at times “raised voices,” they all walked out “with an understanding.”

Dr. Gibson wiped away tears as she listened to Board of Education members wish her well.

Board Chairwoman Catherine Moody thanked Dr. Gibson for her service to Northampton County Schools as she said, “We are where we are because of you.”

“You got us back on track,” said Board Vice Chairman Bill Little. “You’re a good superintendent. You’ve done well.”

Board member Charles Tyner also offered accolades to Dr. Gibson.

“You’ve done many things for Northampton County Schools, without exception the test scores (which have increased),” he said.

Dr. Gibson, a 29 year education veteran, will be living in Fayetteville. It is reported she is retiring her position for personal reasons.

Dr. Gibson’s retirement will be effective January 1, 2008.

A meeting for the Board of Education to discuss the superintendent vacancy is scheduled for December 12 at 5:30 p.m.