Date:  August 2, 2019

News Release from Superintendent Pat Dubbs:

Wayne Local Schools announces today a series of administrative moves reconfiguring our leadership team.  After 18 years in Wayne Local School District, Tammy Burchfield has made the professional decision to take a principal position with Franklin City Schools.  As Elementary Principal for the past four years, Tammy did an outstanding job leading the elementary to a National Blue Ribbon School award and achieving top ranking recognition by the Ohio Department of Education.  Tammy states “It has been my pleasure to serve as Building Principal.  Best of luck for a phenomenal school year.”

From the time of Tammy’s decision, my goal has been to continue our excellence using internal talent.  Tracey Poole will leave the middle school to take the Principal’s chair in the elementary.  Tracey has successfully led the middle school to its own top ranking designation.  Her experience running a building will translate well to our elementary school.   Tracey commented “Working with the students, families, and staff at Waynesville Middle School has been an incredible experience!  I am excited to begin a new venture as the Elementary School Principal and look forward to building new relationships that create and foster a strong learning environment.”

At the next board meeting, I will be recommending Anna Garafolo to the Board of Education to become Assistant Principal at the elementary.  Anna learned a great deal professionally working alongside Tammy and as a Testing Coordinator for the district.  She will be a valuable asset to Tracey and the entire elementary staff.  This move also prepares the district as we transition to our new elementary building in a couple of years.  Anna expressed “I am very grateful for the opportunity to serve the students, staff, families and community of Wayne Local Schools in this new position. I believe it is my role to be mindful and aware of the needs of all stakeholders. I am committed to instilling in them, a hope for success, a belief in themselves, and empowering them to accomplish their goals and aspirations. The positive partnerships we build between our families, our schools, community groups and organizations will in turn strengthen and support our young learners so that they are able to be our next leaders of the future."

Karyn Phillips will move from Special Education Supervisor to lead the middle school as Principal.  Karyn has previous experience in student services with the high school and middle school.  Karyn’s knowledge base will complement the middle school.  Karyn added “I’m very excited and honored as this new adventure begins.  We have such great students, parents, and staff in Waynesville and I look forward to a spectacular school year.”

The district will use the Warren County Educational Service Center for special education services.  Marcia Booher will work part time in the district; Marcia had provided special education services previously at Wayne Local Schools.  Marcia is familiar and comfortable with the way Waynesville operates our student services.

Dr. Sam Ison begins his third year as High School Principal.  Sam continues to find ways to build relationships with our high school, students and their parents.  Sam and the high school staff work hard to offer new opportunities for our young adults.  Sam states “I am honored and proud to be the Waynesville High School Principal and look forward to another great year.  The 2019-20 school year is prepared to increase more student and staff involvement with building a positive climate for the high school and a deeper understanding of the 3 “R’s”- Relationship, Relevance and Rigor! We are excited to welcome new students, the incoming freshmen class and new staff members as we begin a wonderful and productive school year!”

As I begin my 12^th year as Superintendent, I am excited for the 2019-20 school year knowing we have proven leadership with skills, vision, and the ability to bring people together.  We will continue to be a school district led by a purpose – to make a positive, meaningful impact on the students and families in our school community.