The Virginia Association of School Superintendents (VASS) announced Thursday that Fredericksburg City Public School Superintendent Dr. Marceline “Marci” Catlett has been selected as the 2027 Division III Superintendent of the Year.
Catlett has served as Superintendent of Fredericksburg City Public Schools (FCPS) since 2019.
With more than four decades of service to the division, her leadership has been defined by a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, student well-being, and community partnership, VASS said in a statement announcing the award.
Under her leadership, FCPS has implemented strategic initiatives focused on closing achievement gaps, expanding Career & Technical Education (CTE) opportunities, strengthening school safety measures, and enhancing family engagement.
Her tenure has been marked by measurable academic growth, VASS stated, including gains achieved through the expansion of the James Farmer Scholars program, as well as innovative safety initiatives such as the early adoption of cellphone-free learning environments, robust mental health and wellness programs, and enhanced security technologies.
Catlett has also championed transparent communication practices, leading to the development of a dedicated communications team and the expansion of division-wide engagement structures designed to strengthen connections among students, families, staff, and the Fredericksburg community.
Tracy Seitz of Middlesex County Schools, the 2026 Region III Superintendent of the Year and Region III Lead Superintendent stated, “Our Region III colleagues recognize Dr. Marci Catlett as a regional leader and appreciate her service. Personally, I have the utmost respect for Marci in how she conducts herself in small and large groups. She is humble and a person of faith. With that, Marci has helped me ground myself in becoming a better leader.”
Added City School Board Chair Kathleen Pomeroy: “On behalf of the Fredericksburg City School Board, it is with great pride that we congratulate Dr. Catlett on being named Region III Superintendent of the Year. As a graduate of FCPS who began her career here as a sixth-grade teacher and has devoted her entire career to our division, Dr. Catlett leads with optimism, a growth-centered mindset, and a deep commitment to serving and supporting our students, staff, families, and the Fredericksburg community.”
As the Division III Superintendent of the Year, Catlett will now compete with other division winners for the 2027 Virginia Superintendent of the Year Award. The statewide winner will be announced at the Annual VASS Conference this spring.
