(KAIR)--The Superintendent of Schools for Atchison's USD 409 is in the running to become "Superintendent of the Year."

Dr. Renee Nugent becomes one of three finalists vying for the award, presented annually by the Kansas School Superintendents' Association, whose website explains that it's "designed to recognize the outstanding leadership of active, front-line superintendents," who have at least five years of experience and are a member of the association, commonly known as KSSA. The winners are selected based on leadership for learning, communication, professionalism, and community involvement.

Nugent is competing with another local area superintendent, Dr. Kellen Adams, of Leavenworth USD 453, while the third finalist is Heather Bohaty, Superintendent for Derby USD 260.

The winner of the award will be named Monday.

Nugent has served in the role of leadership for the Atchison Public Schools since 2019.