Superintendent - Lakewood Local Schools

Position Type:
Administration

Date Posted:
1/30/2026

Location:
Lakewood Local Schools

Closing Date:
02/28/2026

District:
ESC
Superintendent Search

Lakewood Local School District

In partnership with Finding Leaders
ABOUT LAKEWOOD LOCAL SCHOOLS
Lakewood Local Schools is located in Licking County along the I-70 corridor, just off State Route 79 in Hebron, Ohio approximately 30 minutes east of Columbus. The district serves approximately 1,565 students and employs about 254 staff members, including 136 certified staff, 103 non-certified staff, and 15 administrators and supervisors.
Lakewood Local Schools offers comprehensive elementary and secondary programming, including general education, advanced placement coursework in language arts, science, mathematics, social studies, and information technology, gifted education, college preparatory and career pathway programs in Business, Engineering/Manufacturing, and Information Technology, College Credit Plus, special education services, preschool programming, credit recovery, and a wide range of co-curricular and extracurricular activities.
The district is situated in a growing region that blends small-town character with access to major employers, higher education institutions, parks, trails, and cultural amenities. The Lakewood community values strong schools, responsible stewardship, and a shared commitment to preparing students for future success.

VALUES & EDUCATIONAL APPROACH
Lakewood Local Schools emphasizes:

• Student excellence through strong academic and extracurricular programming

• Investment in high-quality teachers and staff and support for professional growth

• Responsible management of facilities and resources

• Strong community pride and engagement

THE SUPERINTENDENT OPPORTUNITY
Lakewood Local Schools seeks a visionary, student-focused, and collaborative Superintendent to serve as the district's chief executive and educational leader. This is an opportunity to lead a growing district with diverse programming, strong community support, and a clear commitment to continuous improvement.

The Superintendent will work in close partnership with the Board of Education to set strategic direction, ensure high-quality instruction, maintain fiscal responsibility, and strengthen organizational systems that support student success. The successful candidate will be a visible and approachable leader who builds trust, communicates clearly, and values collaboration with staff, families, and community partners.

The Superintendent will oversee all district operations, guide long-range planning, support instructional excellence, and ensure that Lakewood Local Schools continues to deliver on its vision of reimagining education and inspiring future success.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated record of visionary leadership and collaboration

• Commitment to high levels of student achievement and continuous improvement

• Experience in school finance, operations, and human capital management

• Strong communication, relationship-building, and public engagement skills

• Ability to lead in a dynamic, high-expectation environment

• Valid Ohio Superintendent's License

COMPENSATION
The Board offers a competitive compensation package, including a multi-year contract with annual performance reviews. Salary and benefits will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.
SEARCH TIMELINE

• Final date to receive applications:
February 28, 2026

• Initial Interviews (Finding Leaders):
March 7, 2026

• Board Interviews:
March 16 - 17, 2026

• Final Interviews:
April 2026

• Contract Approved:
April/May 2026

•

Start Date:

August 1, 2026 (or as negotiated)

APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter, r sum , credentials, and references at:
Contact Information:
Michael Tefs

michael.tefs