Independence Local Schools is moving forward with a thoughtful realignment of administrative responsibilities as part of its ongoing commitment to strategic improvement and student-centered innovation.
The district would like to share an important update regarding a valued member of our leadership team. At the end of the school year, Tom Dreiling, Assistant Superintendent of Business and Operations, will be stepping down from his role. We are deeply grateful for his years of dedicated service and the impactful leadership he has provided to our schools and community. Mr. Dreiling served as interim superintendent during a critical transition period last school year, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication. He played a vital role in overseeing all building operations as well as the district’s comprehensive maintenance plan, ensuring that facilities remained clean and safe for students, staff and visitors. He also led the stadium renovation project, which included the installation of new bleachers and upgrades to the baseball field. Partnering with the Ohio Schools Council, he successfully coordinated a Custodial Day Event, bringing together maintenance and custodial staff from across Northeast Ohio to share best practices and foster professional growth. His outstanding contributions were recognized when he was named the 2024 Ohio Association of School Business Officials (OASBO) Business Operation Manager of the Year, an honor that highlights his commitment to collaboration, innovation, and creating an optimal school environment. Known for his strategic planning, fiscal responsibility, and strong facilities management, Mr. Dreiling has been instrumental in supporting the ongoing success of the district.
Last summer, Curriculum and Technology Director Mike Pennington also departed the district. Rather than immediately filling that position, the district opted to take time to assess long-term needs and goals.
Under the leadership of new Superintendent Kelli Cogan, who joined the district this school year, a comprehensive evaluation of administrative roles has taken place to ensure the district is best positioned to serve students, staff, and the broader school community. This realignment of responsibilities reflects a strategic approach to supporting the district’s goals now and into the future.
Pending approval at the April 15 Board of Education meeting, Natalie Fior Matthews is expected to be named the next Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessments. She brings a strong background in educational leadership from her current role as Associate Superintendent at Elyria City Schools.
Beginning May 1, the district will post an opening for a Human Resources/Business Director as part of the reorganization that consolidates existing responsibilities. District officials emphasize that this realignment does not result in any increase in central office salaries or staffing. The district is replacing the same number of people who have resigned and doing so in a way that supports the district’s strategic vision and instructional priorities.
To further support this vision, the district will also welcome a new teacher who will serve as a Technology Integration Specialist, helping staff and students maximize the use of educational technology across classrooms.
As part of continued efforts to ensure strong building leadership, final interviews for the next principal of Independence Middle School are scheduled for the last week of April, with an appointment anticipated in early May.
District leadership remains focused on building a collaborative, future-ready team that supports students, staff, and the community at every level.