NEWTON FALLS — The board of education has approved having a company assist the school district in finding a treasurer, as current treasurer Ben Marko will be leaving for a position with Canfield Local Schools.

The board at their meeting Thursday approved a contract with Shared Services Alliance and Finding Leaders to conduct a treasurer search.

Superintendent Andreas Johannson said plans are to get an interim treasurer in place while searching for a permanent treasurer.

He said an interim will be first found and granted a contract effective Jan. 1, 2026.

Marko has been with the Newton Falls district for two and a half years.

Marko will replace Pattie Prince, who is retiring after 39 years with the Canfield district.

The board in October approved by a 3-1 vote, granting a new contract extension for Marko with a pay increase. That new five-year agreement for Marko would have increased his pay from $88,434 to $115,000, effective through July 2030.

In other business, Board President Amie Crowder said the district’s 20-year facility master plan project has been updated.

“This plan will be a road map for the future of the schools,” she said.

She said the plan was started more than a year ago with Johansson when he became superintendent.

Also at Thursday’s meeting, Ellie Falb provided an update to the board on school activities and student issues and concerns.

Faib is a student ambassador to the school board, which began this school year.

Crowder said she learned of a student ambassador program when she attended an Ohio school board conference.

“I am glad this came to fruition,” she said.