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Press Release
Jerry Wartgow Officially Confirmed By The Board of Education As New Superintendent Of Denver Public Schools
The Board of Education made official the appointment of Dr. Jerry Wartgow with a unanimous vote at a special legislative meeting tonight (April 26).“Dr. Wartgow’s proven track record of building systemic change and making quality improvements throughout a complex organization will be major assets for Denver Public Schools,” said Board of Education President Elaine Gantz Berman.
“Dr. Wartgow will bring a fresh perspective that will benefit all students. His stated goals of setting high achievement expectations for all students, closing the achievement gap, and creating a responsive organization are laudable. We welcome his enthusiasm, energy, and dedication.”
Dr. Wartgow’s start date will be Tuesday, May 1 as Superintendent-Designate. He will assume all duties on June 11.
Under the contract, Dr. Wartgow’s annual salary will be $200,000. There is no set length to the contract or buy-out provision; both are common features for urban school superintendents who ask for such elements to provide some level of financial security. Dr. Wartgow stated in comments last week, when his selection was initially announced, that buy-out clauses essentially plan for failure and that he expects to succeed.
Dr. Wartgow is President Emeritus of the Colorado Community College and Occupational Education System, where he spent 12 years. He developed the Higher Education Advanced Technology Center and the Colorado Electronic Community College.
Dr. Wartgow has also served as the Deputy Executive Director and Acting Executive Director for the Colorado Commission on Higher Education (1973-1978).
He is a member of the Denver Zoo Board of Trustees and a member of the Board of Directors of the Education Foundation. He has also served as chair of the Colorado Council on the Arts and on the Board of Denver Center for the Performing Arts.
Dr. Wartgow is married to Diane C. Wartgow. They have two grown sons.