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Girard native named new superintendent

GIRARD — For the past month, Girard resident Bryan O’Hara has been preparing to take on the duties of Girard High School principal.

O’Hara now will be preparing for different duties as he was officially named Thursday the new superintendent.

The Board of Education granted O’Hara a five-year contract at $116,500 annually as superintendent, effective Aug. 1. He replaces David Cappuzzello, who was named this week as the new superintendent of the Austintown Local School District.

O’Hara, a 1981 graduate of Girard High School, was named the new high school principal in May to replace William Ryser, who resigned and has moved to Florida with his family.

“We will be in good hands moving forward. In all my years as a school board member, you have the brightest mind in education of anyone I have ever come in contact with,” Girard Board of Eucation President Mark Zuppo said of O’Hara’s appointment.

He said when they interviewed O’Hara for the principal spot, they also asked if he had a superintendent certificate in case there was a change down the road. Zuppo said board members were impressed with O’Hara’s background, skills and qualifications.

Board member Sue Ellen Davis said the community is very supportive of a hometown person taking the position.

“I am very humbled and honored with the new title you have granted me with. I look forward to taking over the leadership role and working with those of the district in moving the district forward. I will bring my best foot forward every day and bring resources and support to our students and staff. I am excited to be here, like being a head coach again,” O’Hara said.

O’Hara, who most recently served as director of curriculum and instruction for the Trumbull County Educational Service Center, also has worked as an assistant principal at Warren G. Harding High School, math supervisor at TCESC, and a math teacher at Liberty schools.

Cappuzzello, who served eight years as Girard’s superintendent, said he enjoyed his eight years in Girard.

O’ Hara said selecting the next high school principal is a priority, and the school board plans to approve a new hire at next month’s regular school board meeting.

bcoupland@tribtoday.com

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