MSD of Martinsville Superintendent Eric Bowlen’s Retirement

MSD of Martinsville Announces Superintendent Eric Bowlen’s Retirement

After years of dedicated service, the Superintendent of the MSD of Martinsville, Eric Bowlen, announced his retirement.
Today, Mr. Bowlen shared the letter attached with the school community, reflecting on his time with the District and his decision to retire.
The MSD of Martinsville is grateful for Mr Bowlen’s leadership, commitment to the students and staff, and the lasting impact he has made throughout his tenure.
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June 29, 2026

Members of the Board, Staff, Students, Families, and Community,

After more than 32 years of service in education, I am announcing my retirement as the Superintendent of the MSD of Martinsville. My last day serving the district will be December 31, 2026. This decision is based on my health and my family, due to my diagnosis of cirrhosis of the liver (for a non-drinker, this was a surprise) and heart disease nearly three years ago. My retirement will allow me to focus on managing my health and spending more time with my family. 

It has been an honor to spend my entire educational career serving the Artesian Nation and the Martinsville community. From my first days as a social studies teacher, assistant basketball and baseball coach, then serving as an assistant principal, principal, and ultimately, Superintendent, I have been blessed with great opportunities to grow and work alongside fantastic students, staff, families, and community members.

I am filled with gratitude when I reflect on the past three decades. Together, the District has accomplished numerous achievements while facing opportunities and challenges, but has always remained committed to serving students first and providing the best educational experiences. The relationships I have developed and the memories created will always be with me.

While retirement ends my chapter in education, I leave this District with confidence about the future of the MSD of Martinsville. The District is positioned for continued success, and I know the best is yet to come. Great things are just on the horizon for the Artesian students, staff, families, and community. 

I am excited to watch the District continue to evolve in the years ahead, and look forward to seeing future generations of students benefit from the opportunities and programs provided. I am confident the future is bright with the dedicated and talented staff, whose commitment to students will ensure that the MSD of Martinsville schools will continue to thrive.

Thank you for providing me with the privilege to serve the Martinsville community for more than 32 years. The trust placed in me and the friendships formed have been the greatest blessings of my career. I might be stepping away from my role, but I will always be one of the District’s proudest advocates. 

In closing, I feel like the third leg of a relay race, and I’m passing off the baton to the next runner, and I’ll be cheering our team on toward the finish line. Thank you, and God bless Artesian Nation! 

Eric Bowlen