The Oregon Board of Education unanimously approved a leadership transition plan at Tuesday's monthly meeting.
Mr. James Fritz, superintendent of Anthony Wayne Schools, will become superintendent of Oregon Schools on Sept. 28, joining the district as associate superintendent on Aug. 1.
Mr. Fritz’s contract will run for four years beginning Aug.1. As associate superintendent, his salary will be $155,000. Upon becoming superintendent, his salary will be $160,000.
He replaces Hal Gregory, who will become assistant superintendent of programs and personnel for North Point Educational Service Center on Sept. 30.
“When this board developed a new, measurable strategic plan more than one year ago, it was our goal, knowing that the district would be undergoing multiple changes in senior leadership in the immediate future, to create a seamless transition for our key positions, to continue the positive momentum of Oregon Schools,” said Carol Molnar, board president. “We are thrilled to attract a proven professional like Dr. Fritz to continue the growth of Oregon Schools and very proud of the performance of Mr. Gregory, which has greatly benefited our community.”
Mr. Fritz has been the Anthony Wayne Schools’ superintendent for 14 years. Under his leadership, Anthony Wayne ranks in the top 7 percent of all schools in Ohio based on individual state assessment scores. During his tenure, Anthony Wayne developed a tradition of excellence in academics and extracurricular activities.
“I believe in the power of education to transform lives,” Mr. Fritz said. “The vision of our schools is one where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Together, we can create a learning environment that fosters both personal and academic excellence.
“I look forward to working with all of our stakeholders to continue the positive academic progress of our students and the legacy of Oregon Schools.”
According to a statement, the school board was conducting a search for an associate superintendent. It was approached by the leadership of North Point Educational Service Center regarding potentially hiring Mr. Gregory before the expiration of his contract at Oregon.
“It was our intention ... to hire the associate superintendent to spend the upcoming school year working with Mr. Gregory to ensure a smooth transition to the superintendent’s position upon Mr. Gregory’s retirement,” Mrs. Molnar said. “In what was a very sensible scenario, all the parties worked seamlessly together on an expedited transition of experienced leaders.”
Andrea Smith, incoming North Point Educational Service Center superintendent, said, it is “very happy to add Mr. Gregory to our team. His experience as a superintendent will be beneficial to me, personally, and his experience in special education will help the school districts we serve.”
Mr. Gregory has been superintendent of the district since March, 2015. Prior to that, he served as the assistant superintendent since 2008. He was director of student services from 2003-08.
He congratulated Mr. Fritz and thanked the board for working toward a smooth transition.
“Having two months overlap with Mr. Fritz as an associate superintendent is a luxury,” Mr. Gregory said. “I do not need to teach him anything, but I can introduce him to people in this community. This really is a bittersweet moment. I never thought I would achieve being an administrator in this district for 20 years. I want to thank the board, the staff, and the community for that.”
Dan Saevig, board vice president, thanked Mr. Gregory for all his work.
“The citizens of Oregon should be proud of all of the work that he has done in this district,” Mr. Saevig said. ”Because of his work, he has put our schools on the map. We were able to attract a proven leader like Mr. Fritz to our district because of it. We are proud that Mr. Fritz is making his next stop on his academic journey in Oregon.”
Mr. Fritz has been an adjunct professor in educational administration at Bowling Green State University off and on since 2008. He was a science teacher at Springfield High School and a coordinator and academic adviser in the College of Education at the University of Toledo.
He received a bachelor of science degree in exercise science, a master's degree in secondary education, and a doctorate in education administration, all at from UT.
Mr. Fritz said after the meeting he is looking forward to working in the district.
“Tonight is an exciting move forward in my journey,” he said. “I am fortunate to be able to come to a district with a lot of success.”
Mr. Gregory said he was very appreciative of the district and the community.
“This board and community gave me my career,” he said. “They supported me and my family, especially through COVID, which was tough for every superintendent. Many communities were torn apart during that time, but this one was not. This district and community have been wonderful.”
Mr. Gregory said he has a lot of good things to remember about his time in Oregon.
“My favorite part of being superintendent in Oregon is building relationships with staff members, community members, and students, leading to a number of successful cultural, academic, and facility successes,” Mr. Gregory said. “Together, we have created an environment where teachers can thrive, students can succeed, and the community is proud of.”
He said he will miss the people in the district as well.
“I will miss the interactions I have with people who I have become close with,” Mr. Gregory said. “I will miss the excitement I see when students are cheering on their Eagles. Finally, I will miss the pride and energy it has. Being a Clay [High School] Eagle means a lot to so many people, and that excitement is special.”
First Published May 22, 2024, 12:40 a.m.
