About the Nevada County Superintendent of Schools
Scott W. Lay serves as the Nevada County Superintendent of Schools. He was appointed to the position in August of 2017 and subsequently elected in 2018 and 2022. Prior to that time, he served as the Superintendent/Principal at the Clear Creek Elementary School District in Nevada County for the past 16 years where he was also a middle school teacher for 9 years previous to that. During his tenure at Clear Creek School he led the district in achieving the top academic testing scores in Nevada County.
Mr. Lay was recognized at the regional level by the Association of California School Administrators, as Superintendent Administrator of the Year in 2022, and received the Sam LaCara Memorial Administrator of the Year award in 2018. Mr. Lay also received the Superintendent/Principal of the Year Award in 2015; and similar recognition’s in 2008 and 2001; as well as being named District Teacher of the Year in 1996.
Mr. Lay received his Associate of Arts degree from Sierra College, Bachelor of Arts degree from UC Davis, and his Masters and Administrative degrees from the University of La Verne. Mr. Lay is an active member in several organizations, including Schools Insurance Group; Association of California School Administrators; and the California County Superintendents Educational Services Association.
Mr. Lay was appointed to the First 5 Nevada County Children and Families First Commission in 2018 representing the interests of local school districts. Mr. Lay also hosts a radio show on KVMR 89.5FM & 105.1FM “Educationally Speaking” twice a month interviewing students, teachers and various educators on the latest happenings in Nevada County. In addition to hosting the radio show, Mr. Lay hosts a television show, Ed Talk, on Nevada County Media’s main channel. Mr. Lay is active in many local community organizations, such as Rotary, Boy Scouts; Girl Scouts; Gold Country Triathlon Club; and Bright Futures for Youth to name a few.
Scott is a native of Nevada County and has raised his family here for the past 28 years. Both his college-aged children attended public schools in Nevada County. He enjoys cycling, backpacking, hiking and spending time with his family.
Contact Information
Scott W. Lay, Nevada County Superintendent of Schools
380 Crown Point Circle
Grass Valley, CA 95945-9089
(530) 478-6400 or Email: Refer to Staff Directory