ANSWER: “We are transitioning new leadership in nearly every role in the district. A new superintendent, a new junior-senior high school principal, a new elementary principal, a new elementary assistant principal and a new director of special education/gifted education. While many of the new leaders are familiar faces with new roles, there will still be a slight learning curve and natural adjustments. The district has made huge strides in putting technology into the hands of students and teachers and will continue to support professional development in the areas of technology integration in the classroom. We are continuing many of the successful reading and math programs in the elementary and junior high school. Additionally, we are implementing new state standards, the common core curriculum, as well as a new teacher evaluation system for the 2013-2014 school year. While all of this is going on, we continue to focus on the needs of every individual student and hope to work together to create a positive, engaging and rigorous academic environment for our students.”
Q: What changes in technology are coming to your district’s classrooms?
ANSWER: “This year, as part of our ongoing technology plan, we will be updating the Jr./Sr. High School Media Center and the special education classrooms with new iMac computers. We have also recently acquired Andrew Wheatley, a Technology Integration Specialist through Butler County Educational Service Center, to help our teachers develop lesson plans and effectively integrate the technology in the classroom by not only using the technology themselves but also creating innovative ways to put technology in the hands of students.”
Q: What are the biggest challenges or areas of improvement for your district?
ANSWER: “The biggest challenges for our district are not unique. Along with all of the other schools in Ohio, we are working toward successfully implementing the state mandated Common Core and Ohio Teacher Evaluation System. It is our priority to make these transitions as smoothly as possible. By beginning the work several years ahead of the mandates, we are able to ensure confidence and success for our staff and students.”
Q: How would you summarize your district’s financial situation?
ANSWER: “I would say that we are cautiously optimistic. The district has implemented several cost saving measures over the past several years and will continue to look for ways to save in the future. The district has also made several staffing changes and we will continue to evaluate the needs of our students. Collectively, these actions have allowed the District to avert a financial meltdown. The district does a lot with the resources we have and we have successfully learned to operate leaner, while still offering great programs for our students.”
Q: What advice would you like to offer the parents of your students?
ANSWER: “Get involved. Be an active participant in your student’s education.”
About the Author