Kenny Guinn Leaves Legacy in Education

LAS VEGAS - "I think everybody is just heartbroken and shocked," said Clark County School Board President Terri Janison. "Dr. Guinn was one of those kinds of individuals you never forget," added Clark County School Board Trustee Linda Young.

He was a teacher, a superintendent, president of a university and a governor. Those who knew Kenny Guinn say his biggest impact was on children and our state's education system. "(He) made you feel that not only he valued you, but that you were a part of the educational future," Young said.

School board members and educators say Guinn, who served as Clark County School District superintendent from 1969 to 1978, was a natural leader. "He was able to set a path that we continue to follow," Young said. "He was hands-on," added Clark County Commissioner and long-time educator Chris Giunchigliani. "He worked with administrators, helped work on accountability issues and made sure that parents were a part of the process."

After leaving the school district, Guinn remained an advocate for education. As governor, it was one of his top priorities. "(He was) always putting children first and fighting for funding that needs to go along with the education system," Janison said.

Guinn established the Millennium Scholarship, which was named in his honor. The millions of dollars from that fund have helped tens of thousands of students pursue their college educations. Guinn also helped pass legislation that gave children access to quality pre-school programs and kindergarten classes across the state.

"Those kids, 10 years now, it's been in effect for 10 years, owe Kenny Guinn for that," Commissioner Giunchigliani said.

Guinn is gone, but he's not forgotten. Friends say the former governor's legacy in education will remain. "Although we lost a great man, his memory that is embedded in all of us will continue to live on," Young said.

Clark County School District Superintendent Walt Rulffes said, "His leadership as both our governor and CCSD superintendent positively changed the blueprint of education in this state… (He) was an integral part of the Clark County School District's history and will always be remembered for his commitment to our children."