Dr. Wendy Birhanzel is honored to be the Superintendent of Harrison School District 2 and a parent of a Sierra High School graduate. She has served more than 20 years in public education throughout California and Colorado. She earned her doctorate in Educational Leadership in Urban School Settings from the University of Southern California. Her passion is ensuring a high-quality education experience for every student and opening doors to opportunities and success. In her work, she advocates for necessary school funding and bringing a voice to students and staff.
During her time as a Principal, Dr. Birhanzel led two different schools to be honored with National Blue Ribbon Awards and named National Title I Distinguished Schools. Moving into her role as Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Officer, she helped build up programming to support students through a rigorous curriculum for all students. Dr. Birhanzel was awarded the Mayor’s Young Leader Award from the city and the Young Alumni Achievement Award from her college for her educational impact.
In her current role as Superintendent, Dr. Birhanzel works collaboratively with staff to offer students an excellent academic experience and opportunities such as free college, free technology, free athletics and activities, free before and after school care, free breakfast and lunch, and free tutoring. Under her leadership, the district passed a $180 million bond leading to 20 buildings being renovated and 3 new schools being built. She has also partnered with the community to ensure wrap-around supports such as mental health care, food security, and housing are provided for all families. Her passion is supporting the whole child and family in the community. During her tenure, the district was named the best educational workplace and has had the highest staff retention rates.
Dr, Birhanzel advocates for educational funding and ways to create opportunities for students. She serves on several local and national boards to provide a voice for educators. Recently she has been named 1 of 22 to watch in ’22 by the Southeast Express, a Woman Making a Difference by the League of Women’s Voters, and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Transformational Leader by Colorado Springs Business Journal. Each day she reflects on how decisions make better outcomes for students.
Past AASA Colorado Superintendent of the Year Winners:
2022 Colorado Superintendent of the Year: Dr. Brenda Krage
2021 Colorado Superintendent of the Year: Dr. Keith Owen
2020 Colorado Superintendent of the Year: Pamela Swanson
About the Award:
The Superintendent of the Year program, sponsored by First Student and AASA, pays tribute to the talent and vision of the men and women who lead the nation’s public schools.
State-level winners are selected on the following criteria:
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- Leadership for Learning
- Communication
- Professionalism
- Community Involvement