Vance Eden, 37, is the new associate superintendent of schools for USD 235, Uniontown.

Following completion of his education programming, he will assume the title of superintendent.

Process

“As I still haven’t completed my programming at this point, for the next year Mr. (Bret)Howard will work on a consultation basis to help with any needs that I may have,” Eden said.

Howard is the current superintendent who ends his tenure from the district on June 30.

“This provision is necessary under the current leadership license that I have,” Eden said. “Once I complete the coursework and receive the Kansas Department of Education licensure credential next spring, my title would then transition to superintendent.”

“We have tried to be open and transparent about this  process,”he said. “I had sent a letter to parents when I was hired that explained this information, but understand that many in the community would not have received such communication.”

“I will officially assume the role July 1st,” he said. “But I have been working in transition over the course of the past 6-8 weeks to make plans for the coming school year.”

His office will be located inside Uniontown Junior High/High School building.

Education

Eden received his Bachelor’s of Education in Elementary Education and  a Master’s in Educational Leader from Pittsburg State University.  

“I’m currently working on a Specialist in Education Degree with a Major in Advanced Studies in Leadership from Pittsburg State that will be completed in the Spring of 2023,” he said.

Experience

Just out of college Eden taught math at Webb City Middle School before transitioning to be the assistant principal of that same building.  

“I then served as a Title I Reading and Math Interventionist at West Bourbon for three years before assuming the role of the principal for the past four years,” he said.

Ms. Tema Gilion will become the WBE principal in the next school year.

Background

Eden was raised in Bourbon County on the Eden family farm that is located on Hwy. 54 near Bethel Church, and attended Uniontown schools from kindergarten through 12th grade.

His family is made up of “my amazing wife, Rachel, and two great kids, Scout and Rhuey,” he said. 

In their leisure time, the Edens can be found outdoors.

“Our family enjoys all kinds out outdoor activities,” he said.  “Riding dirt bikes and spending time on the lake would top the list for this summer.”

While in college, Eden changed careers to enter education.

“While in college pursuing a different major, the idea of becoming an elementary teacher really started to intrigue me,” he said.  “I had always enjoyed kids and seemed to have a pretty natural rapport with them. Once I made the switch in majors, things seemed to fall into place pretty naturally.” 

Many people inspired him to pursue education.

“I’ve been impacted by too many people to list just one,” he said.  From my supportive parents and extended family, to remarkable teachers, to current friends and co-workers.”

The best part of being an educator for Eden is giving students the tools they need to pursue their passions.

There are a few challenges in education.

“Kids don’t all start from the same place,” Eden said.  “They haven’t all had the same support, opportunities, and care.  Schools have to find a balance in supporting social, emotional, and academic needs so that by the time they leave us as 18 year-olds they are ready to thrive in adulthood.”