The Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents has named the leader of Franklin schools the Indiana Superintendent of the Year among all districts in the state.
David Clendening was selected as District V Superintendent of the Year earlier this year, one of eight superintendents in the state. Of those eight, the association chose Clendening, who has now entered a pool of 50 superintendents nationwide for a chance at the National Superintendent of the Year award.
The state association chose Clendening because of his work leading a district that lost more than $21 million in revenue between 2010 and 2020 due to property tax caps, according to a news release.
Clendening joined the district in 2009. Under his leadership, all middle and high school students received Chromebooks, new Project Lead the Way classes were added and a partnership with Franklin Education Connection helped more children become first-generation college students.
Also, the district launched a successful referendum, a property tax hike which was approved by 63% of voters who live in the district. It funded efforts to improve mental health, increase school safety and raise teacher salaries.
“It’s very humbling to be recognized by peers across the state for the things we’re doing at Franklin schools. I’ve got a great team around me. This award was given to me, but it’s a reflection of everyone in the district,” Clendening said. “It’s an honor to be recognized, especially this year. The last 18 months, everyone has had to navigate a world unknown to us, living in a pandemic.”
