Dr. Nicely named VASS Region VI Superintendent of the Year
Updated
The Virginia Association of School Superintendents (VASS) is pleased to announce that Dr. Ken Nicely, Superintendent of Roanoke County Public Schools, has been selected as the 2025 Region VI Superintendent of the Year. Region VI includes 14 school divisions in western and southside Virginia.
Dr. Nicely has served as Superintendent of Roanoke County Public Schools since 2018. Under his leadership, the school division has established a bold vision for deeper learning through the C-Change Framework, which prepares students to be "Opportunity Ready" beyond high school. His tenure has been marked by innovative initiatives such as the implementation of student-led conferences at the elementary and middle school levels, the development of high school student portfolios demonstrating durable skills, and the launch of the first-ever "Opportunity Ready Graduate" Diploma Seal for seniors in 2024-25. Additionally, Dr. Nicely played a pivotal role in securing funding for the construction of a new $80 million Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center, which will expand opportunities for students across the division’s five high schools.
Kim Halterman of Alleghany Highlands Public Schools, 2024 Region VI Superintendent of the Year stated, “Dr. Nicely is extremely deserving of this recognition. His vision and leadership have transformed Roanoke County Public Schools into a model of deeper learning, ensuring that students graduate prepared for future opportunities. As colleagues, we recognize him as a regional leader and appreciate his service.”
“We couldn’t be prouder of Dr. Nicely,” said Shelley Clemons, Chair of the Roanoke County School Board. “Under Dr. Nicely’s leadership, Roanoke County Public Schools has progressed into one of the leading school divisions in the state. We think he would be a great choice for the 2025 Virginia Superintendent of the Year,” Clemons added.
As the Region VI Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Nicely will now compete with seven other regional winners for the 2025 Virginia Superintendent of the Year Award, which will be announced at the Annual VASS Conference this spring at The Hotel Roanoke.