The Ohio Board of Education has appointed a new interim superintendent. Stephanie Siddens, currently a senior executive director for the State’s Department of Education, was selected to take over the role this fall when current superintendent Paolo DeMaria retires.
John Richards, who has worked as the state’s deputy superintendent for the past four years, was first chosen by the board to fill the upcoming vacancy in July. He announced his resignation from the Board of Education earlier this month.
At a board meeting Monday, The Board’s President, Laura Kohler, says choosing the right person to fill the role temporarily is important as the Board searches for a permanent superintendent.
“This will bring us ever closer to accomplishing our one goal which is increasing the percentages of high school graduates who, one year after graduation, are enrolled in some kind of post-secondary learning experience, serving in the military, earning a living wage or engaged in a meaningful vocation,” said Kohler.
Siddens will take over the role as Ohio’s top educator in September.