NEWTON FALLS — Village schools are planning to celebrate the district’s Tiger Pride with colorful images of its school mascot.

Superintendent Andreas Johansson said that Athletic Director Chad Rankin informed the school board this month about the project, which will transform the high school with custom-designed murals to energize those walking through the halls.

The board agreed to proceed with the custom design of two tiger murals. Rankin presented a slide program to the board that featured two custom-designed murals — one located in the Gene Zorn Gymnasium and the other in the junior/senior high school commons.

He said the mural features a large tiger, an orange paw, 44444 and “Newton Falls” on the home side wall or entrance wall of the gymnasium.

Officials said the mural could serve as a backdrop in the gymnasium for graduation ceremonies, media days, signing ceremonies and game-day photography.

For the commons area, an image of a running tiger with the words “Tiger Pride” will be featured.

Officials said the commons is the central hub for student life, lunch and community events.

Officials said the two murals will become sources of community pride that create a connection between the school and the village.

The proposed $10,000 project covers design fee, materials, labor and other expenses. Officials said each mural will take five to seven days and will be created by local artist Chris Rodriquez, whose work is displayed on the side of Tiger Den Pizza.

Johansson said mural work would begin in the spring for completion by early summer.

He said staff, art teacher and art students provided feedback on the design and image.

Rankin said he wants every person, from staff, students and visitors who walks into the school “to feel the energy of this community.”

“These murals aren’t just decorations; they are a permanent investment in our school spirit,” Rankin said.

Johansson said the murals will beautify the gym and the commons area.

In other action, the board:

• Approved Sheila Hastings as transportation supervisor at $42,000 on a three-year contract, effective Aug. 1, 2026, to July 31, 2029. She will replace John Crowder, who handled the duties as well as being an elementary school principal for grades four and five.

• Approved the retire-rehire of Jon Hill as high school art teacher on a one-year limited contract effective 2026-27 year.

• Approved retire-rehire of Frank Tatarka as maintenance worker on a one-year contract effective 2026-27 year.

• Accepted the retirement of Deborah Garvin, intervention specialist, effective May 31.

• Reported the school treasurer search is continuing.

• Approved an agreement with the Mahoning Valley Regional Council of Governments for special education services for district students, and social workers for counseling.

• Approved Chad Rankin as athletic director and head baseball coach and Dan Rankin as junior varsity head boys basketball coach for 2026-27 year.

• Were informed that National Honor Society high school students are working to get the Never Forget Garden ready for this summer. The NHS will help the American Legion put up the flags on veteran’s graves on May 9. Seniors will also take part in Senior Service Day Friday.

• Announced the art show kicks off 5 to 6:30 p.m. Friday.

• Announced the school complex will be used as an election voting site for the May 5 election for both the village and township. There will be no school for students.