Gillett superintendent on medical leave

The superintendent of Gillett Public Schools is stepping aside from his duties while he battles a serious health issue.

Superintendent Todd Hencsik posted a Facebook message Dec. 13 revealing that he has been diagnosed with myelofibrosis, a form of bone marrow cancer, and will be undergoing a stem cell transplant.

“This procedure and the subsequent recovery will take approximately one year, but I will be cancer-free afterward,” Hencsik said. His leave of absence was scheduled to start Dec. 15.

In October, the Gillett School Board hired Wayne Johnson to serve as interim superintendent while Hencsik is away. Johnson has 18 years of experience as superintendent in four school districts, Hencsik said.

“Most recently, he was interim superintendent of the Tigerton School District, so he understands the dynamic of rural education in Wisconsin,” he said. “We are extremely lucky to have him join us during my health issues, so please join me in welcoming him to our team.”

Hencsik joined the Gillett School District in July 2020 to succeed former superintendent Todd Carlson. He previously served as principal of Campbellsport secondary schools.

“I am extremely proud of the progress we are making with the Gillett School District, and I would like to thank everyone for their support over the past two-plus years,” Hencsik said in closing his public announcement. “I look forward to rejoining Gillett as soon as I am cleared to return.”