The USD 454 Board of Education announces the selection of Dr. Darren Dennis as the new superintendent. Dr. Dennis will take the reins on July 1, 2026 after the retirement of Dr. Marcy Cassidy at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.
Dr. Darren Dennis, a Kansas native, grew up in Topeka and comes from a family of educators who instilled in him a deep respect for learning. He attended the University of Kansas, earning a bachelor’s degree in social studies education, a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction, and a doctorate in educational administration.
Dr. Dennis has served in school districts across Kansas throughout his 36-year career in education. He began in Lansing USD 469 and later served, among other positions, as a high school principal in Burrton USD 369 and as assistant superintendent in Garden City USD 457. Most recently, he has served as Chief Academic Officer in Shawnee Mission USD 512.
He and his wife, Sue, have been married for 35 years and have three sons, ages 28 to 33. They enjoy long walks together and spending time with their two grandchildren in Garden City.