PEMBERVILLE, Ohio — The search for a new superintendent for the Eastwood schools is progressing as planned, according to board of education President Randy Rothenbuhler.

The search, necessitated by the retirement of Brent Welker, has now progressed to the initial interview stage. The board met with a representative of the Ohio School Boards Association on March 17 to review the applicants’ materials.

The board of education has chosen eight candidates for first interviews:

● Brian Cannon, McPherson Middle School principal in the Clyde-Green Springs schools.

● Brad Contat, director of human resources with Anthony Wayne schools.

● Brian Hughes, high school principal at Benton-Carroll-Salem schools.

● Justin Johnson, Grades 6-12 principal at Gibsonburg schools.

● Lori Pierce, principal at Fremont schools.

● Mark Pugh, Northview High School principal with Sylvania schools.

● Brian Rau, superintendent with Wellston schools. 

● Dolores Swineford, assistant superintendent/curriculum director with Evergreen schools.

First Published March 19, 2025, 5:31 p.m.