Lance Hansen, superintendent of the Independent School District No. 1, has been named Idaho Superintendent of the Year for 2025 by the Idaho Association of School Administrators. The IASA recently announced the award, highlighting Hansen’s extraordinary leadership and commitment to enhancing education, forming relationships, and guaranteeing student success.
Hansen was recognized for his unwavering devotion to making decisions based on what is best for all students, according to a press release from the school district. Lisa Fenter went on to say that Hansen is appreciated as a leader with a strong dedication to a system that supports each and every student. He is skilled in knowing the right times to question, push, support, encourage, praise, and redirect to meet students’ needs.
As stated by several throughout the district in a press release, “We are making a difference for students and staff every day.”
Hansen never fails to meet and even exceed his goals by focusing on teacher collaboration and adult learning. He has a wall devoted to tracking student data that shows growth in reading and math scores throughout the school district. This data chart has been an inspiration to other teachers. Now, all schools follow this example, hosting data walls that track their students’ learning.
Hansen inspires everyone with his infectious attitude to ensure student learning for all. Through his collaborative work with other leaders in the Valley and those throughout the state, Mr. Hansen is continuously modeling how to bring all stakeholders into the commitment to safe and equitable learning for all.
Jill Bruce of Lewiston Independent Foundation for Education said in a statement, “Lance is a great leader for the Lewiston Independent School District! His commitment to education and the value he places on creating and maintaining relationships within the community we live is truly a strength.”
Staci Baldwin, Lewiston School Board President confidently affirmed in a statement that under Hansen’s leadership, she believes that one of his most commendable accomplishments is “his commitment to building and unifying relationships throughout the community.” Not only has he established and strengthened partnerships with stakeholders, families, and local businesses, but he also “represents the community with the utmost professionalism and has made the Lewiston School District a place that other districts strive to emulate, creating a network of support that directly benefits local students”.
Lance Hansen, in his fourth year as superintendent, is the 16th Superintendent of Lewiston Independent School District No. 1. He has served the district for 18 years in various roles, including Assistant Superintendent, Principal of Lewiston High School, Assistant Principal of Lewiston High School, and Assistant Principal of Sacajawea Middle School. Mr. Hansen is a proud graduate of Challis, Idaho, and the University of Idaho, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Math, as well as a Master’s degree and an Education Specialist (Ed.S) degree in Educational Leadership.
