Parma City Schools introduce new superintendent Scott Hunt; emphasizes data, community engagement and possible levy

Dr. Scott Hunt, the new superintendent of Parma City Schools, used a special board meeting to outline his leadership approach, priorities for student achievement and plans to engage the community — including a potential November levy — and then took questions from parents and community partners.

Hunt framed his approach around collaboration, data-driven decision making and alignment to the district strategic plan and state standards, telling attendees that “all kids can learn” given appropriate supports. He said he will be visible in the district, hold one-on-one meetings with staff and community leaders and ask residents to “commit to the work” before asking them to “buy in” to changes such as a levy request.

Hunt described a leadership philosophy built on teamwork and accountability, referencing Patrick Lencioni’s model of the five dysfunctions of a team and stressing trust, open conflict when needed, commitment and inspection of results. “If I say I’m going to do this, I’m going to do it,” Hunt said, adding that if he cannot follow through he will explain why. He said the district’s report card currently shows a 3.5-star rating and that “that’s not good enough,” and that decisions should be based on multiple data sources including student assessments and community surveys.

The superintendent emphasized principals’ role in amplifying teacher impact, saying building leaders are “the critical key element, not the superintendent.” He called for tighter alignment among standards, instruction and assessment and said teacher and principal evaluation rubrics should support that alignment.

Hunt raised revenue as an immediate priority. He said the state is not providing the support districts need and that Parma will need the “support of our whole Parma community.” He repeatedly referenced November as the likely timing for asking voters to approve additional local funding and said the district must do more storytelling about successful programs — including CTE and college-credit opportunities — to build public support.

Community members asked about equity and student supports. Janelle Coza of Resource Cleveland noted the district serves “over 900” English learner students and asked how Hunt plans to engage that population; Hunt said he will work with partner organizations and examine communication and service pathways for families. A parent who said about 60% of students live in poverty pressed Hunt on outside factors affecting achievement; Hunt said those factors matter and that leadership must provide supports so teachers can focus on instruction.

On technology and workforce preparation, Hunt said schools must teach the “skill sets” students will need to adapt to rapid changes including AI and automation. He called these skills an “and” not an either/or to core reading and math instruction and said lifelong learning should be emphasized so graduates can change careers over their lifetimes.

Several parents raised practical concerns. One asked about the school-of-choice assignment process after being told her child might be moved from a current campus; Hunt said he did not have enough information in the meeting to answer that family’s case but offered to follow up individually. Another attendee criticized the district’s payroll share of the budget and suggested staffing cuts; Hunt said he would review spending and that any trimming would be examined through a needs-based lens.

Votes at a glance - Resolution 2025-06-270: Adopt the written record of proceedings from the June 5, 2025 regular board meeting. Outcome: approved (motion recorded; roll call indicated approval). - Resolution 2025-06-271: Adjourn the special meeting. Outcome: approved (roll call indicated approval).

Hunt closed by asking for community commitment to try district changes for a period to allow results to show before full public “buy in.” He said he intends to move into the community and be a visible presence in Parma, continue one-on-one meetings with staff and stakeholders, and follow up individually on parents’ operational questions.