Perrysburg board votes to hire Michael J. Acum as superintendent

The Perrysburg Board of Education voted March 24 to approve a contract for Michael J. Acum as the district's next superintendent.

Chair (speaker S1) read the board's recommendation and described a search process that included a professional search firm, 13 community focus groups, reference checks and multiple interview rounds. The board recorded a roll-call vote approving the contract; board members responded affirmatively during the roll call.

Why it matters: The board emphasized Acum's combination of instructional and operational experience as a fit for district needs. According to the board statement, Acum currently serves as director of business and personnel for Solon City Schools and has held roles as an elementary and middle school principal. The chair said Acum brings experience in human resources, operations, facilities and strategic planning and holds an Ohio superintendent license.

Board members who spoke in support framed their votes around student focus and operational experience. Denise (S5) said Acum is "first and foremost student focused," and Lucy (S4) called out his dedication to strategic planning and school funding. Laura (S6) told colleagues she had done reference work and cited Acum's experience with levies, bonds and superintendent evaluations.

The chair said Acum will begin a listening tour to meet staff, students, families and community members as he prepares to step into the role.

The vote: The board made and seconded a motion to approve the contract and recorded unanimous affirmative responses by roll call. The board congratulated Acum after the vote.

Next steps: The board moved into routine committee reports after the approval; Acum will begin outreach to district stakeholders, according to remarks at the meeting.