Mike Waller, a 30-year member of the Henderson County Board of Education, was named KSBA’s 2024 Kentucky School Board Member of the Year.
“He embodies all of the district’s seven core values, but the one that he demonstrates most is core value number seven: Be the Change Agent,” Waller’s nomination said. “He has changed the trajectory of the lives of thousands of students, and in turn, changed the trajectory of our great community.”
The nomination also described Waller as an experienced parliamentarian, respectful even in disagreement, and a passionate alum of the district. He is credited with being “instrumental in enacting the reforms that came with the Kentucky Education Reform Act in the 1990s.”
In between two standing ovations from more than 700 conference attendees, a humbled Waller shared the award with this family and fellow board team members, many of whom were in attendance, and Henderson County Schools personnel.
“I would like to accept this award today on behalf of more than 1,000 classified and certified employees of the Henderson County School District, one of the greatest teams I’ve ever worked with or been on,” Waller said.
Winning the association’s top individual honor came as a surprise to him.
“While a shock to him, it came as no surprise to those of us who have had the pleasure of getting to know him and observing his exemplary board service,” said KSBA Executive Director Kerri Schelling.
KSBA’s Kentucky School Board Member of the Year award, established in 2022, recognizes significant contributions to public education through service on local school boards. The award is presented to an individual who, among other things, exemplifies leadership best practices, passionately advocates for the needs of the district, demonstrates the highest ethical standards, and celebrates the values of public service. This year’s award was sponsored by American Fidelity Educational Services.