A nonprofit publication of the Kentucky Center for Public Service Journalism

Floyd County’s Webb chosen as superintendent of Kenton County Schools; brings proven track record


By Mark Hansel
NKyTribune managing editor

Dr. Henry Webb of Floyd County has been named superintendent for Kenton County Schools.

Dr. Henry Webb is introduced as the new superintendent of Kenton County Schools Tuesday (photo by Mark Hansel).

The Kenton County Board of Education voted unanimously to appoint Webb at a special meeting Tuesday at the Board office in Fort Wright.

Webb, 45, submitted his resignation as Superintendent of Floyd County Schools Monday, effective June 30. He will assume his new role in Kenton County July 1.

“I want to thank the Board for trusting me and having faith in me to work and serve the kids here in Kenton County,” Webb said. “My goal here is going to be to work in a team effort for all of kids to ensure exactly one set objective. When our kids walk across the stage, they are prepared for life – they are prepared to succeed in career, in vocation, whatever they chose to do. I’m honored to serve our kids here in Kenton County with what I understand is an outstanding team.”

Former Kenton County Schools Superintendent Terri Cox–Cruey retired abruptly in March, along with two senior administrators. The Board appointed Neil Stiegelmeyer to serve as the Kenton County interim superintendent while a search for Cox-Cruey’s replacement was conducted.

Jess Dykes, Director of Public Information and Community Engagement for the Kenton County School District, said there were 28 applicants for the position. The field was narrowed to six finalists, then five, when one candidate took another position.

Dykes said the Board offered the position to Webb Friday and he accepted, but he wanted to inform the Floyd County Board of Education before an official announcement was made.

Webb was chosen Superintendent of the Year in November by the Kentucky Association of School Administrators. He is the Kentucky representative for the School Superintendents Association in Washington, D.C.

A large crowed showed up to meet Dr. Henry Webb, the new superintendent of Kenton County Schools (photo by Mark Hansel).

Dykes said Kenton County is fortunate to have a leader with Webb’s credentials.

“His school district in Floyd County is a District of Distinction three years in a row, which is the only county that was able to do that,” Dykes said. “Out of 18 schools, 15 were Distinguished, three were Proficient. Students, first, preschool and technology are some top priorities that he speaks about, but we are absolutely thrilled, on behalf of the Board of education, to have him.”

Webb has spent his entire career in education in Floyd County Schools, beginning in August, 1995 as a teacher for the visually impaired.

He continued in that role and also taught physical education and social studies until he became assistant principal at South Floyd High School in June 1999 and was named principal in October of that year.

Webb was named Director of District Wide Services five years later and was selected as superintendent in December of 2007.

Webb said it was difficult to leave Floyd County after all those years, but felt it was time for a change.

“It was time for my family and I to look for opportunities,” Webb said. “Kenton County has such a wonderful reputation for educating kids. It’s a progressive school district for innovation and it was just the right opportunity at the right time for us to move up here and serve the kids of Kenton County.”

A press release issued by the Floyd County Board of Education praised Webb for his accomplishments there:

“Dr. Henry Webb has led Floyd County Schools by example. His passion for making things better for kids is unmatched. His willingness to grow has inspired others to grow. Dr. Webb doesn’t see obstacles; he sees opportunities. And he will be missed.”

During Webb’s tenure as superintendent, Floyd County has seen growth in attendance and performance. In 2016, Floyd County Schools students achieved new highs in average scores on the ACT and the highest scores ever in the state accountability system according to a statement from its Board.

New Kenton County Schools Superintendent Henry Webb speaks to students at Floyd County Schools (photo courtesy of Floyd County Schools).

In 2007, Floyd County Schools ranked No. 86 of 173 school districts in Kentucky. That number improved to sixth in the state in 2016.

Webb’s other accomplishments include realizing the vision of an early college academy and 63 students have graduated high school in Floyd County with Associate’s degrees. Recognizing the need for personal instruction and for students to become more technology-proficient, he also designed and implemented a digital one-to-one program that allows all students in grades 5-12 to have a personal device to use and take home.

Floyd County Schools, which is located in southeastern Kentucky, was also one of the first districts in Kentucky to have free breakfast and lunch for every child and in the summer of 2016.

Webb said he knows the Kenton County position will be a challenge, but that’s one of the things that attracted him to the job.

“It will be a transition, but I am a fast learner and I adapt pretty quick,” Webb said. “I plan to spend a lot of time in the community, like I always do. I’m looking forward to really understanding the county and our kids, and making sure that they have what they need to be successful.”

Webb has a bachelor’s degree from Morehead State University and a master’s from the University of Louisville.

Webb has also received the F.L. Dupree Superintendent of the Year award through the Kentucky School Board Association, and the Dr. Samuel Robinson Award for leadership. He has served as president of the Kentucky Association of School Superintendents, on the Kentucky High School Athletic Association Board of Control and as a member of the Commissioner’s Work Group for Consequential Review.

Contact Mark Hansel at mark.hansel@nkytrib.com


Related Posts

Leave a Comment