VIENNA — A Mahoning County school administrator was hired Thursday to lead the Mathews Local School District as its new superintendent.

Mathews school board offered Dennis Hynes a three-year contract running from Aug. 1, 2026, through July 31, 2029, at an annual salary of $110,000.

Hynes was chosen out of 14 candidates and four finalists. The board earlier accepted Superintendent Russell McQuaide’s retirement, effective July 31.

Hynes comes from Struthers City School District, where he served as assistant superintendent for the last six years. He provided districtwide leadership for 1,600 students and 200 employees.

Hynes taught at Lowellville Local Schools from 1993 to 2013 before moving into administrative roles, teaching grades four through 10 across multiple subject areas.

The Lowellville resident holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Youngstown State University and a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Westminster College. He received his superintendent’s certification from the University of Dayton.

McQuaide expressed plans to stay around and help Hynes transition into his new role.

“I didn’t get involved at all (in the process) because I didn’t want to have any bias from me,” McQuaide said. “But I’ve heard such good things, so I know the board did wonderful with that.”

Hynes thanked the board for the opportunity, saying he’s excited.

“I’m a little nervous because I was waiting for this board meeting, but I’m looking forward to working with the board, the administrators, the teachers, everybody,” Hynes said. “I come from a small town, I’ve worked in a small district for 23 years — it’s really what I love. I love working with the small districts and towns.

“I’m a hands-on guy; I’ll be around, but I’m not around to do anything other than to help everybody that I know,” he added.

Board President Joel Polonus, who led the interview process, said he could speak for himself and the board in calling Hynes “very impressive.”

Mathews Elementary School Principal Michael King, noting McQuaide still had a few months left, expressed his appreciation.

“Just what you’ve done for us, in believing in us and trusting us and always having our backs — just really appreciate you for that,” King said.