MADISON, WI — The Wisconsin Association of School District Administrators has named Dr. Tremayne Clardy, superintendent of the Verona Area School District, as the 2026 Wisconsin Superintendent of the Year.
Dr. Clardy is being recognized for his exceptional leadership in advancing educational equity, fostering community engagement, and improving student outcomes. Since joining the Verona Area School District in 2021, he has guided its schools through a period of significant growth, innovation, and success.
With Dr. Clardy’s leadership, the district has become known statewide for removing barriers to learning and fostering a strong sense of belonging to prepare learners to thrive in a diverse global society. Through a focus on data-driven improvement, equitable resource allocation, and consistent communication with families and staff, the district has seen measurable gains in student achievement. Overall graduation rates, Advanced Placement participation, and attendance have all surpassed state averages.
“We are honored to recognize Dr. Clardy as Wisconsin Superintendent of the Year,” said WASDA Executive Director Jon Bales. “His leadership exemplifies what it means to put students first, engage communities with transparency, and create systems where every learner can thrive. Dr. Clardy has proven himself to be an exceptional educational leader not only in his community, but also statewide.”
Dr. Clardy’s commitment to community and staff collaboration has been a hallmark of his tenure. He led the district’s successful referendum effort to sustain high-quality programs, established Superintendent Advisory Councils for students, staff, and families, and expanded partnerships supporting early childhood education and student mental health services.
Prior to leading VASD, Dr. Clardy served as chief of schools for the Madison Metropolitan School District and held roles as principal, teacher, and district-level administrator. He has 27 years of experience in K-12 education and also serves as an adjunct professor at Edgewood University in Madison.
“I am truly humbled by this recognition,” said Dr. Clardy. “This honor reflects the collective efforts of our Board of Education, staff, students, families, and community members, who share a deep belief in equity and excellence. Together, we have built a school district community that celebrates every learner and works each day to ensure all students are prepared to thrive.”
Dr. Clardy holds a doctorate degree and master’s degree from Aurora University, a master’s in curriculum and instruction from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, and a bachelor’s degree in education from the UW-Whitewater. He serves on multiple state and regional boards, including the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association Advisory Council and the UW-Whitewater Dean’s Advisory Board.
WASDA will present the Wisconsin Superintendent of the Year award to Dr. Clardy during the joint WASB/WASDA/WASBO Convention in Milwaukee in January 2026.
Since its inception, WASDA’s Superintendent of the Year program has become widely acknowledged as the most prestigious honor a Wisconsin school system leader can receive. Criteria include successfully meeting the needs of students, personal and organizational communication, professionalism, participation in local community activities, and an understanding of regional, national, and international issues.
