Vernon Independent School District

Where Learning Takes Focus

Cultivating Leaders Through Vision, Accountability, and Opportunity

In the rolling plains of North Texas, Vernon Independent School District (VISD) stands as a model of grit, growth, and genuine commitment to student success. Under the forward-thinking leadership of Superintendent Dr. Kermit Ward, the district is building a future rooted in high expectations, innovative programming, and a deep investment in people—both students and staff.

With a powerful guiding vision—“Traditions, elevating expectations, and cultivating leaders”—VISD is reimagining what it means to educate in a small-town setting. Blending legacy and innovation, the district is creating a culture that values rigorous academics, technology integration, vocational training, and community connection.

Setting the Tone: Vision and Culture

When Dr. Ward joined the district, he brought with him a clear sense of purpose. “We’re focused on elevating expectations,” he explains. “Not just for students—but for parents, teachers, and the community as a whole.” That ethos has become a touchstone for Vernon ISD’s decision-making, ensuring that all initiatives serve the long-term goal of producing capable, confident leaders.

For Dr. Ward, cultivating leaders means more than classroom performance—it means instilling character, responsibility, and community engagement from an early age. “We want our kids to step into the world knowing how to lead and knowing they have the support to get there.”

That same sense of purpose extends to the district’s staff. “The relationship between teachers and students is everything,” Ward says. “You can have the best curriculum, the best building—but without trust and connection, it doesn’t work.”

Investing in Educators: Human Capital as a Cornerstone

VernonISD’s greatest investment is in its people. With teacher retention at the forefront of district priorities, Vernon ISD has made major strides in reducing attrition, increasing salaries, and supporting teachers in meaningful ways.

Clay, the district’s Chief Financial Officer, underscores the emphasis on “human capital” over purely physical infrastructure. “We’ve built a beautiful new elementary school, yes,” he says, referring to the recently completed $40 million campus. “But we also know that facilities mean little without great educators inside them.”

The district is working hard to retain those educators. From consistent professional development to leadership opportunities, VISD aims to create a culture where educators feel valued, empowered, and part of something bigger.

Future-Focused: Technology and Early STEM Education

Vernon ISD is a one-to-one district, ensuring that every student has access to a Chromebook. Technology is not seen as an accessory but as a foundation. “We’re introducing STEM and tech literacy starting in pre-K,” explains Sarah, the district’s Director of Curriculum. “We want our students to be creators, not just consumers of technology.”

From coding basics to digital citizenship, students are developing real-world skills that will serve them in any future field. This early exposure is especially impactful in preparing students for Vernon ISD’s growing Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings.

Career and Technical Education: Pathways with Purpose

Vernon ISD has taken bold steps to expand its CTE programming across grade levels, with new courses introduced at the middle school level and robust dual-credit opportunities at the high school through a strong partnership with Vernon College. The goal? To give students a head start on life after graduation.

“Ultimately, we want our students to walk the stage with more than just a diploma,” Dr. Ward says. “We want them walking out with associate degrees, industry certifications, and the confidence to succeed in the workforce or higher education.”

Current CTE pathways include Culinary Arts, Health Sciences, Business Management, and Teaching. The district’s dual-credit model allows students to earn college credit while still in high school, minimizing post-secondary costs and accelerating career readiness.

Reaching All Learners: Statewide Partnerships

In addition to traditional campuses, Vernon ISD provides educational services to two highly specialized populations: a state-run mental health facility and a youth correctional institution. This unique partnership allows the district to extend its mission beyond its typical boundaries.

“These students deserve access to quality education just like anyone else,” says Dr. Ward. Sarah elaborates: “We offer them core content, electives, and as much consistency as possible. 

It’s about keeping them on track academically while supporting their emotional needs.”

This responsibility is one the district takes seriously, and Dr. Ward emphasizes that their inclusion in the story reflects the district’s broader commitment to equity and second chances.

Building Bridges: Co-Op Programs and Community Partnerships

Vernon ISD’s CTE program is supported by a growing network of local business partners, including restaurants, veterinary clinics, schools, and banks. Five to six students are currently engaged in co-op work placements, gaining hands-on experience and networking opportunities before they even leave high school.

“We’re just scratching the surface,” Dr. Ward notes. “As funding and infrastructure improve, we’ll scale these partnerships so that more students can benefit.”

Sarah adds that the district is proactive in reaching out to businesses. “We don’t wait for people to come to us—we initiate those conversations and show them the value our students can bring to their organizations.”

These partnerships are not just about job readiness; they’re about weaving students into the fabric of their hometown economy, building pride and purpose along the way.

New Beginnings: A State-of-the-Art Elementary School

Among the district’s most significant capital investments is a brand-new $40 million elementary school—an ambitious project that demonstrates Vernon’s commitment to 21st-century learning. The new facility includes flexible learning spaces, integrated technology, and modern amenities designed to support both students and teachers.

“It’s more than a building—it’s a signal,” says Clay. “A signal that this district is moving forward, that we are creating places where kids and staff want to be.”

Dr. Ward sees the new elementary as the first of several potential infrastructure improvements. “As the local economy grows, we’ll be looking at additional opportunities to upgrade facilities district-wide,” he says.

Strength in the Arts

While the district is highly focused on STEM and CTE, the arts remain a vital part of the student experience. VISD boasts strong programs in band, speech and debate, and one-act plays. The district has recently hired new band directors to build on these successes and create more performance opportunities for students.

“We believe in the lifelong value of the arts,” Dr. Ward says. “Whether it’s music, drama, or public speaking—these programs teach confidence, discipline, and expression.”

Leadership for the Long Haul

As superintendent, Dr. Ward is deeply invested in the district’s long-term success. When asked what keeps him motivated after years in education, he doesn’t hesitate. “I still feel like I haven’t reached my ceiling,” he says. “I want to leave something lasting—and I believe I can do that here.”

Over the next 24 months, Dr. Ward and his team are laser-focused on achieving top accountability ratings across all campuses. This means not only improving academic performance but also continuing to create an environment where teachers feel supported and students feel empowered.

“It all comes down to how we treat people,” he says. “Our teachers are the foundation. If we treat them right, everything else follows.”

A District on the Rise

From early tech integration to robust CTE offerings, from mental health partnerships to a state-of-the-art new school, Vernon ISD is a district that blends tradition with innovation. The community’s trust in leadership, combined with bold investments in human capital and infrastructure, is laying the groundwork for sustained success.

As Dr. Ward reflects on the road ahead, one theme emerges clearly: accountability with heart. “We’re holding the line on expectations,” he says, “but we’re doing it with support, with vision, and with a deep belief in what our kids and educators can accomplish.”

In Vernon, public education is not just about preparing students for the next test or the next grade—it’s about preparing them for life. And with leaders like Dr. Ward at the helm, the future looks not just promising—but profoundly purposeful.

AT A GLANCE:

Who: Vernon Independent School District

What: A determined and forward-looking school district rooted in what lies next for its students

Where: Vernon, Texas

Website: https://www.vernonisd.org/