The board passed over three southwest Ohio candidates who were among seven remaining finalists — Tom Lasley, executive director of Learn to Earn Dayton; Robert Sommers, CEO of Carpe Diem Learning Systems of Middletown; and David Estrop, former Springfield City Schools superintendent.
Lasley said his interviews went well, but he was not disappointed in the decision. He was “surprised but very pleased” that the vote was unanimous, saying the state needs a good education leader, and needs the state board and other leaders to get behind DeMaria rather than fighting each other.
“I have known Paolo for years and I have a lot of respect for him,” Lasley said. “He has extensive experience with both the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Department of Higher Ed. I think the board really felt like his understanding of the culture of both of those would be useful.
“I’m excited for Paolo and I’m excited for the state,” he added.
DeMaria replaces former superintendent Richard Ross, who retired Dec. 31. Ross’ final year was marked by increasing tensions with the board, as disagreements flared over a scandal in the state’s charter-school oversight office and a takeover of the Youngstown schools.
DeMaria most recently served as principal consultant for Education First Consulting. Previously, he held leadership positions in both ODE and Ohio Higher Ed, as well as budget and policy advisor positions in state government.
“I love Ohio and want our children to be the very best they can be,” DeMaria said in a statement. “There are so many smart and energetic people working in education as teachers, administrators, policymakers and advocates, and Ohio has what it takes to be the best.”
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