Beyond the Title is a series of Q&As with alumni of Madison365’s Most Influential lists. Join many of our Most Influential at the 365 Leadership Summit on November 3!
Dr. Tremayne Clardy (Wisconsin’s Most Influential Black Leaders, 2021) is Superintendent of Schools for the Verona Area School District. Dr. Clardy came to VASD with 22 years of experience in K-12 education. Leading up to his previous stint overseeing the operation of 32 elementary schools in the Madison Metropolitan School District, he served at varying levels of school administration and teaching. Dr. Clardy received his Ed.D. and MA from Aurora University and his MS and BS in Education from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.
What does presence before performance mean to you – and how do you stay grounded when the pressure to perform is high?
For me, “presence before performance” is about remembering that leadership begins with people, not outcomes. Every policy, program, and data point ultimately connects back to a student, a family, or a staff member who deserves to be seen, heard, and valued. Presence means slowing down enough to listen, to understand context, and to lead with empathy even in moments of urgency.
When the pressure to perform is high, I stay grounded by returning to my purpose of serving others with integrity and ensuring that every decision honors our mission of excellence grounded in equity.
What’s the best advice you’ve received from a mentor?
Understand who you are, embrace your values and never waiver from the core beliefs that drive you.
Tell us about a time you had to lead before there was consensus – when you were the only one who saw it, believed it or were willing to act. What gave you the courage to move anyway?
When I first led the transition to a new governance model in the Verona Area School District, there was uncertainty and hesitation about shifting long-standing practices. I moved forward because I believed deeply that clarity, accountability, and equity must guide every decision we make for students. The courage came from knowing that leadership sometimes means stepping forward alone so that others can eventually see what is possible together.
What’s one question every new leader should ask during their first 100 days and why?
Does each person in our organization that is accountable for a goal have the decision making authority to achieve that goal?
Who’s in your “corner” – that voice of wisdom you trust when things get tough? How do you build and protect that circle?
I am blessed to have a loyal and highly skilled leadership cabinet that can have tough conversations and disagree with honor while simultaneously elevating our shared mission.
Leadership can be exhausting. What practices or boundaries help you avoid burnout and stay aligned with your purpose?
Honestly my work is not exhausting because of the daily impact of creating educational spaces filled with joy and learning. I do vacation with my family to provide balance and create new memories.
Clout fades. Calling lasts. How do you stay anchored in impact over recognition?
The business of education is about serving the needs children. Daily we see their growth as critical thinkers, keep them safe, and support their emotional well-being. That sucess is all the recognition I need.
What’s a leadership value you refuse to compromise even when its inconvenient?
Center the needs of our children in every leadership decision.
What book, quote, lyric or even scripture captures how you lead or how you live?
Phillipians 4:13
When life gets heavy or leadership feels overwhelming, what’s something you turn to: music, travel or cultural connection that helps you feel like yourself again?
A quiet space with 90’s R&B keeps me relaxed and focused.
Who is your favorite sports team?
The Verona Area Wildcats!
What is your favorite holiday and why?
Mother’s day. My mother is my hero.
