Parma schools' superintendent search concludes in May 2025

The Parma City School District is searching for a new superintendent, with the process expected to finish in May. The current superintendent, Charles Smialek, is leaving to take a similar role in another district starting August 1. The school board held a meeting on March 12 and hired a consulting firm called Finding Leaders to help with the search. The firm will present a list of recommended candidates in late April. The board plans to interview these candidates the following week and select a final choice around May 12. Finding Leaders will conduct the search at no cost to the district because it is a member of the Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio, which partners with the firm. This was an important factor for many board members in choosing the company. Edward Vittardi, CEO of Finding Leaders, said he personally cares about this search. He is a graduate of Parma Senior High School. The firm will gather input from surveys, focus groups, and meetings with various stakeholders, including staff, students, and parents, to identify the qualities needed in the new superintendent.