Bexley board honors outgoing superintendent Jason Fine and endorses leadership recommendations

The Bexley Board of Education on July 8 publicly recognized outgoing Superintendent Jason Fine for five years of service and presented him with a ‘‘champion’’ award and commemorative coins.

Multiple board members praised Fine’s community-driven strategic plan, equity work, facilities planning and visible presence at student events. In remarks the superintendent thanked staff, his family and the community and said it had been ‘‘an absolute honor’’ to serve the district.

The board also approved grouped agenda items that included personnel recommendations and policy reads. The board voted to approve items 7a–7c (second reads and personnel items) following a motion and second; the meeting record shows the motions carried by voice vote.

Superintendent Fine announced several staffing updates and recommendations before the votes: Dylan Shoemaker was introduced as the district’s new director of technology (start date listed as July 1), the administration recommended Jason Cottle to begin as chief academic officer on Aug. 1, and Dr. Jamie Stewart was recommended as the next principal of Bexley High School, pending formal board approval. The superintendent noted Stewart brings nearly three decades of experience and that the hiring committee included staff and community members.

Why it matters: Leadership transitions shape district priorities and implementation of multi‑year plans such as facilities work and equity initiatives. The board’s approvals and public recognition signal a planned handoff from Fine to incoming administrative leadership in August.