District news
New superintendent Dr. Dylan Smith replaces retiring Dr. Baker
What happened
Superintendent Dr. Baker announced in November 2025 that he would retire on June 30, 2026 after eight years. The board hired the Kentucky School Boards Association to run the search. A committee of staff, a principal, a parent and a board member screened applicants, and the board interviewed finalists in closed sessions. Dr. Dylan Smith started as superintendent in July 2026.
Why it matters to families
The superintendent runs every school and carries out the board's budget and policies. New leaders often bring changes in priorities and staffing.
The evidence
November 18, 2025 recording: retirement letter read aloud. December 16, 2025: KSBA search contract approved 5-0. June 24, 2026: farewell remarks naming Dr. Smith. July 21, 2026: Dr. Dylan Smith approved as board secretary and his growth plan adopted.
The source
July 21, 2026 board meeting recordingSee the full record for Walton-Verona Independent Schools.
Get alerts like this for Walton-Verona Independent Schools
We read every agenda, packet, and set of minutes, and write up the decisions that affect families — each one linked to the document it came from, the moment it's public.
Get personalized alerts