The Brecksville-Broadview Heights City School District held its regular board meeting on May 28, 2025, where the focus was on staffing changes for the upcoming school year. The meeting highlighted the hiring of new educators and the retirement of long-serving staff members, marking a significant transition for the district.
Among the notable retirements were Don Ferrante, a high school math teacher and track coach with 32 years of service, and Todd Lasall, a fourth-grade teacher with 27 years of experience. Their contributions to the community and students were acknowledged with gratitude, as the district prepares to welcome new talent.
The board approved the hiring of several new staff members, emphasizing the rigorous selection process that candidates undergo. Building principals shared their excitement about the quality of applicants, noting that the district received hundreds of applications for various positions. This year, the hiring process included teaching auditions, allowing candidates to demonstrate their ability to engage with students effectively.
Among the new hires are Nathan Godsey, a math teacher with a unique background in collegiate wrestling and coaching, and Emily Zemko, who transitioned from the IT industry to education, showcasing the diverse paths individuals take to become educators. The board also welcomed intervention specialists Kaylee Penton and Ryan Poundstone, both eager to contribute to the district's mission of supporting students with diverse needs.
At the elementary level, the district is excited to add Megan McLean and Isabella Robatin as kindergarten and first-grade teachers, respectively. Their previous experience as long-term substitutes has already proven beneficial, and they are expected to make a positive impact in their new roles.
The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism as the district prepares for the next school year, with plans to continue filling remaining positions. The collaborative effort among administrators and staff in the hiring process reflects the district's commitment to maintaining high educational standards and fostering a supportive environment for both students and teachers.