South Routt School District Superintendent Dr. Kirk Henwood has been honored with the prestigious Demont Award, recognizing exceptional leadership among Colorado’s rural education leaders.

The award was presented during the 2025 Colorado Association of School Boards Annual Convention last week by Jim Wilson, former state representative and current commissioner of the Colorado Commission on Higher Education. 

Wilson praised Henwood’s commitment to supporting students in every pathway, from career and technical training to mental health support in schools. 

“Kirk is an advocate for every student,” Wilson said. “He wants every student to graduate with some type of certificate or concurrent enrollment credits … I can’t think of a more deserving person than Dr. Kirk Henwood.”

Henwood, who began his career in education after growing up on a cattle ranch in Grand Junction, used the moment to highlight the collective effort behind South Routt’s progress.

“As superintendent, we don’t do this by ourselves,” said Henwood in his acceptance speech. “Every single one of our board members is here, and that speaks to the commitment that our board has, so I want to say thanks first and foremost.”

“I want to thank our staff and our teachers, because that kind of recognition … doesn’t happen without those great people,” he continued. “We are a community of one, and it’s a challenging job that we do, but if we do it together and work together, we can move together as one voice.” 

South Routt School Board President Kristi Schalnus celebrated the news in a social media post, calling the award “one of the most respected recognitions in Colorado’s rural education community.” 

“The Demont Award is given to leaders who embody integrity, dedication, and the belief that you should always ‘leave it better than you found it,'” Schalnus wrote. “Anyone who knows Dr. Henwood knows this describes him perfectly.”

“Being a superintendent is not an easy job. Tough decisions, long hours, and constant behind-the-scenes work often go unnoticed,” she continued. “But today, we get to shine a light on Dr. Henwood’s tireless commitment to our students, staff, and community.”

“Under his leadership, South Routt continues to move forward with strength, purpose, and heart. He listens. He shows up. He works hard. And he always puts our kids first,” Schalnus added. “Congratulations, Dr. Henwood! Thank you for everything you do to support our district and for truly leaving it better than you found it.”