District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) Chancellor Kaya Henderson issued the following statement mourning the death of Paul L. Vance, former DCPS superintendent. Mr. Vance served as superintendent from 2000 to 2003.

“Today, it is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Dr. Paul L. Vance, former superintendent of DC Public Schools. Dr. Vance dedicated his professional life to the education of students in the National Capital area. In his tenure at DCPS, Dr. Vance worked tirelessly to improve the quality of the education for all students, recruit high-quality school leaders, and transform the culture of the school system. A passionate administrator and relentless community leader, Dr. Vance came out of retirement to lead DCPS and fought hard to bring stability to the school system during a tumultuous time marked by frequent leadership turnover. Dr. Vance’s work touched the lives of thousands of students and families, and we are grateful for his vision and commitment to education. We send our prayers and deepest condolences to his family.”