SPRINGFIELD TWP., Ohio (WKBN) – Tuesday night, the Springfield Local School District picked a new superintendent, but not everyone at the emergency school board meeting agreed with the choice.
About 30 people showed up, most supporting long-time district principal David Malone.
Public comments were not allowed during the meeting, but many in the crowd didn’t hesitate to let the board know how they felt. Before it started, members of the crowd filed up to the stage to speak with the board. Lifelong Springfield resident Reed Metzka spoke in support of candidate Malone.
“Dave Malone has got a doctorate. Been here for 18 years,” Metzka said.
Malone is the current Springfield Intermediate School principal and has held the position since 2005.
“Most of us in this community are pushing for Dave Malone,” said Perry Santangelo, a 55-year resident of Springfield.
The board chose Rachael Smith, the former superintendent of Youngstown Community School. The vote count was 4 yes and 1 no. Michelle Snyder was the lone “no” vote.
Springfield Board of Education President Karen Dattilo says Smith is the most qualified.
“She’s been in education 26 years — that’s a long time. She’s been in leadership roles for 23. She’s got the experience. She’s been a teacher, she’s been involved in curriculum,” Dattilo said.
Despite the crowd’s not-so-warm welcome, Smith says she hopes to win them over by building the district’s STEM program.
“One of my first jobs is going to be coming in and building relationships, building trust, being able to build some bridges. I am 100% up for the task and excited to immerse myself in the community,” Smith said.
Springfield Local Schools will hold a regular board meeting on Monday, April 17 at 6 p.m.
