The Westerville City School District (WCSD) Board of Education on Monday approved the resignation of Superintendent Dr. John R. Kellogg, who has accepted a new Superintendent in Residence position that will work jointly with Columbus State Community College (CSCC) and the Educational Service Center of Central Ohio (ESCCO).
Kellogg will finish the current school year with Westerville City Schools and depart at the end of June to begin his new position with CSCC and the ESCCO. Board of Education members congratulated and expressed their appreciation to Kellogg for his accomplishments, as well as his family for all they have given to the district and community over the past 10 years.
“My focus in this new role will be on regional collaborations for student success and career pipelines,” Kellogg explained. “Much of this work will entail creating and sustaining partnerships between K-12, higher education, the State of Ohio, economic development organizations, and industry leaders to advance common goals across the region.”
Kellogg said while his decision to leave WCSD is bittersweet, the opportunity to have an impact at the regional K-12 and post-secondary levels is very appealing.
“Westerville City Schools gave me the professional opportunity for my first Superintendency and the last 10 years have been an absolutely incredible experience,” Kellogg said. “We’ve accomplished so much during that time and have overcome many challenges. Given the Leadership Team we have in place, I know the district will remain in good hands.”
In a joint written announcement, ESCCO Superintendent Tom Goodney and CSCC President Dr. David T. Harrison said they are pleased to welcome Kellogg to his new role, stating, “We’re thrilled to have someone with John’s deep experience and relationships throughout central Ohio working with (us). Among other responsibilities, he will help to advance the Central Ohio Compact and its focus on elevating attainment rates among all students, manage the ESC’s portfolio of school and district leadership and development programs, and work to address the educator shortage in central Ohio.”
WCSD Board of Education President Tracy Davidson said the Board intends to conduct a national search to identify the district’s next leader.
“Right now we're in the process of preparing a Request for Proposal to select a company or organization that can support us in this effort,” Davidson explained. “We'll keep our staff and community informed of our progress in this regard once additional details are finalized.