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STEWART — The Federal Hocking Board of Education unanimously voted to give Jason Spencer a four-year contract effective Aug. 1 during Tuesday’s meeting.
“The Federal Hocking Local School Board looks forward to working together with Dr. Spencer. We are excited about this next chapter of Federal Hocking,” Board of Education President Kerry Sheridan-Boyd said.
Spencer will oversee a school district that educates with around 900 students and a budget of a little over $18 million. The district operates two elementary schools, Amesville and Coolville, located in their respective villages, and a middle/high school located east of Stewart. Spencer’s annual base salary is $130,000.
“I am thrilled and extremely grateful to be part of this incredible organization, which is made even more exceptional by the unique qualities each of you brings. I look forward to contributing to the team and getting to know all of you,” he posted to the district’s website on Wednesday. “As I gear up for a new school year, I am filled with optimism and hope for the potential it holds for our students’ growth and development. This may be my 26th year, but it is my first year with Federal Hocking students, and I am determined to make it outstanding with your support.”
Spencer takes the reins from David Hanning who offered his resignation to the Board of Education on May 21 after five years of service for the Lancers.
Hanning’s last day of work is officially July 31 after which he’ll be serving as Director of Student Services for the Amanda Clearcreek School District in Fairfield County.
Spencer is in his 26th year serving public education. He began teaching in Orlando, Florida, where he spent eight years in the classroom. Dr. Spencer began his administrative career in Central Florida before moving to Ohio to continue his administrative career as an elementary principal.
During Spencer’s last 12 years as a building administrator, he spent five years at the elementary school level, three at the middle school level, and four at the high school level. Following his school-based administrative career, Spencer spent five years as a district administrator, supervising and coaching principals and leading a team of over 200 employees as the Senior Director of Safety Services.
In Spencer’s message to the Lancers, he inspired the district to continue to strive for excellence.
“Our collective mission is to guide our students through the challenges of their teenage years,” he said. “I am deeply committed to ensuring every student’s success. Success means equipping our students with the tools they need to thrive in their adult lives. The journey may be arduous, but we must always strive to pursue student achievement. Our role is to open as many doors as possible, guiding students to the path that aligns with their passions and interests.”
Spencer continued, “Remember, the difference between good and great is often a matter of a single degree. Water is hot at 211 degrees, but at 212 degrees, it will boil and create steam. With steam, we can power a train. Our collective efforts can transform our district into a powerhouse of education. Let’s embark on this journey to excellence together, harnessing the power of our unity and dedication. This unity and commitment will drive us toward our shared goal of student success.”
Spencer passionately believes that excellent instruction is the key to a successful school.
“Jason is a high-energy, inspirational leader,” Federal Hocking Schools posted to social media. “He has high expectations for himself and those he works with. He believes in continuous growth and building solid teams that benefit students. Dr. Spencer is a student-first administrator and will work tirelessly to help all students find success.”
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