Superintendent Vernon Henshaw leads a class. 'The most important aspect of a successful education system is ensuring that engaged learning through nurturing instruction happens in every classroom every day,' he said. (Alpine School District)
The demands of superintendent can seem unrealistic at times, but for 15 years, Vernon Henshaw connected with all 8,000 employees and led 73,000 students of the Alpine School District. He will retire this July, leaving big shoes to fill.
'He is a strong advocate for children and strong advocate for good working conditions for the employees in the district,' said John Patten, assistant to the Alpine School District superintendent.
Henshaw announced his retirement, effective July 31, after an unusually long tenure as superintendent. Two to three years is an average tenure for superintendents nationwide, but Henshaw worked 15 years, leaving behind a series of accomplishments.
Memorable highlights of Henshaw's service include a steady improvement in end-of-level test scores in language arts, science and math. He completed more than $640 million in building projects, improved graduation rates from 73 percent in 2008 to 90 percent in 2014, and he was recognized as Utah's Superintendent of the Year in 2008.
Patten mentioned how easy it would have been for Henshaw, with 8,000 employees, to 'be apart from the trenches.' However, Henshaw made it a point to connect with all his employees, despite the overwhelming number of them.
Henshaw visited classrooms and schools weekly. He held meetings with representatives from all the schools in the district triannually and also met with principals from all grade levels. 'He is really beloved by employees,' Patten said.
It is anticipated that the new superintendent will start July 1. The board of education selects the new hire after an application and interview process. Utah state law allows applicants from non-education backgrounds to be considered for the superintendent position.
Henshaw served a total of 38 years in public education. He said prior positions prepared him for his eventual leadership. He taught high school social studies and served in several administrative positions. 'The complexity and demands of the high school principalship provided experiences which helped prepare me for becoming a superintendent,' he said.
The demands of the superintendent are almost unrealistic. 'I quickly discovered I needed to do my very best and perform within my strengths and abilities, than rely on the strength and ability of others on the leadership team,' Henshaw said.
Henshaw's ability to lead and teach will leave a lasting impression on the district. 'He really knows the business; he is an exceptional instructional leader. He knows principles of teaching and learning, and everybody is able to learn from him,' Patten said.