Cape District Superintendent Bob Fulton announces his retirement
Cape Henlopen School District Superintendent Bob Fulton announced his official retirement, effective Tuesday, July 1, during the Cape Henlopen school board meeting held April 10 at Rehoboth Elementary School.
Fulton’s retirement marks the end of his 34 years at Cape, 13 of which were spent as superintendent.
“It’s been the honor of a lifetime to lead and serve along with such an incredible, dedicated board of education – the best board ever – as well as educators, staff, families and community, all of whom have played a vital role in the continued growth and success of our district,” Fulton said. “I want to thank you all for the opportunity to serve this remarkable district and for the trust you have placed with me over the years. It has truly been my privilege.”
Teary-eyed board members smiled as he spoke.
He said stepping away from the role is bittersweet, but he has full confidence in the strength and dedication of the district, staff and board members, as well as in the direction of the district.
“I am one piece of the puzzle here. Nothing we do is about one person or even a few people; it’s about everybody. And we have so many great individuals and educators and passionate people who love what they do here.
“I’m proud of all we have accomplished together, and I’m excited to witness the next chapter in Cape Henlopen’s continued journey of success.”
Board President Alison Myers thanked Fulton for an incredible ride.
“I can’t imagine being here without you and having done all the things we’ve done in at least the 11 years that I’ve been on the board with you,” said Myers.
“We weathered the COVID-19 pandemic and came out the other side with the highest academic testing scores in the state,” Myers added, according to a release from the district. “We wish Superintendent Fulton a well-deserved retirement filled with relaxation, joy and new adventures. His dedication and leadership will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire the district for years to come.”
Janis Hanwell, who has worked alongside Fulton in many positions throughout the years as a teacher, assistant principal, supervisor and current school board member, also spoke at the meeting.
“I will really miss this man,” said Hanwell. “He took care of me when I needed it, and I took care of him when he needed it. He will be missed.”
More details will be shared next week, according to the district.
Ellen McIntyre is a reporter covering education and all things Dewey Beach. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Penn State - Schreyer Honors College in May 2024, then completed an internship writing for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. In 2023, she covered the Women’s World Cup in New Zealand as a freelancer for the Associated Press and saw her work published by outlets including The Washington Post and Fox Sports. Her variety of reporting experience covers crime and courts, investigations, politics and the arts. As a Hockessin, Delaware native, Ellen is happy to be back in her home state, though she enjoys traveling and learning about new cultures. She also loves live music, reading, hiking and spending time in nature.
