Photo (from left): Mrs. Diane Ruff, Mr. David Hudson, Mr. Scott Cassidy, Mrs. Becky Miller and Mr. Josh Morckel. (Courtesy of Dunlap Photography)
When the new year begins for Minerva Local Schools on Aug. 17, there will be some familiar – and unfamiliar – faces in administrative positions for the Lions.
With the departure of Minerva’s elementary principal, David Rogers, a new spot for the assistant principal immediately opened.
Diane Ruff, a 1981 Minerva graduate, has spent the previous 12 years as the elementary school’s assistant principal.
She will start the new school year as the principal.
“I am looking forward to a great year working with parents, staff, and students,” Mrs. Ruff said. “Together we will empower our students to be the best they can be.”
Moving into the vacant assistant principal position will be Becky Miller, previously the curriculum director.
Mrs. Miller, a 1991 graduate of Minerva spent 15 years teacher in Carrollton Exempted Village and Minerva Local School District. In the last 13 years, she has held administrative positions in Plain Local and the Stark County ESC.
“I am looking forward to the buzz and excitement of being in the building, along with Mrs. Ruff and the super MES Team,” Mrs. Miller said.
The district’s new curriculum director is also a familiar face.
Scott Cassidy, Minerva Middle School’s Principal and a 1996 graduate of MHS, will take over the position. He brings 15 years teaching experience to the position along with seven years as the middle school principal.
“I am excited to continue our growth mindset at Minerva Local! Additionally, I am looking forward to being a servant leader for both staff and students at the district level,” Mr. Cassidy said.
Cassidy’s position as MS principal will be replaced by Josh Morckel, who previously served as the school’s assistant principal for a year.
Mr. Morckel, a 2000 graduate of Minerva, spent time teaching at Marlington, Lake and Minerva before returning to Minerva and becoming the middle school’s Dean of Students.
“I am looking forward to collaborative partnerships and relationships with our staff, parents, and community to ensure our students achieve their highest potential,” Mr. Morckel stated.
The last addition to Minerva’s administration team is David Hudson, a 1991 graduate from Cadiz High School.
Mr. Hudson spent time at Minerva as a teacher during his 26-year education career with tenures also including GlenOak and Lake High Schools. He will now be the middle school principal.
Mr. Hudson said he’s ready to get back to Minerva.
“This is a great community filled with people who genuinely care for each other,” he said.
MES Back to School Information
Get Ready for Kindergarten Orientation August 8, 9, 10 from 9:00 to 1:00
Class lists will be available August 12 outside Door A at 4:00
Meet the teacher is August 15 from 5:00 to 6:30
MMS Back to School Information
Monday August 15th 6th Grade Orientation 3:00-5:30 PM
Tuesday August 16th Meet & Greet 3:00-5:30 PM
MHS Back to School Information
Freshmen Orientation- Friday, August 12th 8:00 am to 11:30