Dewey D. Hensley, principal of J.B. Atkinson Academy for Excellence in Teaching and Learning in Jefferson County, has been named associate commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Education’s (KDE’s) Office of District 180.

Hensley will oversee the newly created office, which will support low-performing schools and districts that are identified for educational recovery based on state and federal guidelines and requirements. The office includes the Division of Student Success, which is focused on alternative education programs and virtual delivery of instruction.

“Dewey is an excellent choice for this position, because he brings great knowledge and experience in the areas of school turnaround and improvement,” said Kentucky Education Commissioner Terry Holliday. “A key area of focus for this agency is helping low-performing schools improve outcomes for their students, and Dewey has the hands-on experience needed to guide our work.”

Hensley has served as principal of Atkinson since 2006, leading the school to make dramatic improvements in academic achievement. He also served as principal of Bates Elementary in Jefferson County, was a Highly Skilled Educator assigned to schools in northern Kentucky and was a high school English, humanities and communications teacher in the Berea Independent, Eminence Independent, Jefferson County and Oldham County school districts. Hensley is certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.

Hensley earned a bachelor’s degree from Berea College, a master’s degree from the University of Louisville, school administrator certification from Eastern Kentucky University and a doctorate from Spalding University.

Hensley is a resident of Louisville. He will begin his new duties on July 1, and his salary has been set at $108,000 annually.