(Photo provided) Mary Schaeffer was selected by the Marietta City Schools Board of Education to be the district’s next superintendent. Schaeffer has been the superintendent for the Woodmore Local School District since 2022. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Bowling Green State University and went on to earn both her master’s and doctor of education degrees at Ashland University in Ohio.

The Marietta City Schools Board of Education voted unanimously Tuesday to approve the hiring of Mary Schaeffer as the next superintendent of the district.

The new contract will begin Aug. 1, 2025, and last until July 31, 2030.

Schaeffer has been the superintendent for the Woodmore Local School District since 2022. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Bowling Green State University and went on to earn both her master’s and doctor of education degrees at Ashland University in Ohio.

“We had two great candidates, and they both brought a tremendous amount of experience and expertise to the role,” Board President Cody Parman said. “These two candidates complemented each other in many ways, and while it was a tight race, we are very confident that Dr. Schaeffer is going to be a tremendous fit here and just what we need.”

Parman said the board selected Schaeffer unanimously following an extensive nationwide search process. He said after a comprehensive selection journey that began in January, the district worked with Finding Leaders consulting firm to identify the ideal candidate, adding the search involved multiple stages, including focus groups with teachers, administrators, students, and community stakeholders.

(Photo provided) Mary Schaeffer was selected by the Marietta City Schools Board of Education to be the district’s next superintendent. Schaeffer has been the superintendent for the Woodmore Local School District since 2022. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Bowling Green State University and went on to earn both her master’s and doctor of education degrees at Ashland University in Ohio.

“We had a very extensive process,” Parman said. “They made over 60 contacts and narrowed down to about 20 applications, ultimately interviewing six highly recommended candidates.”

He said the selection process included in-depth interviews, site visits, reference checks and a final stakeholder interview where administrators, teachers and students could ask questions directly. He said this brought them to their final two candidates with Schaeffer being the board’s choice.

“I think she’s a fighter,” Board Member Sam Tuten said. “We have competitive people here, and I’m excited to see how that pairs up.”

Schaeffer, who could not attend Tuesday’s meeting, said in a statement Wednesday she was excited to get started.

“I am honored to have been selected to serve as the new superintendent of Marietta City Schools and I’m excited to join a district with a proud tradition of excellence,” Schaeffer said. “It is a privilege to work in partnership with the Marietta Board of Education, our outstanding staff and the entire community. Together, we will collaborate to support every student and ensure a bright future for Marietta’s schools.”

Schaeffer will also be working under a bridge contract from May 1 to July 31 before her official contract begins.

The board also thanked Acting Superintendent Alison Woods for her work.

“We practically blindsided Ali (Woods), and she stepped up to the challenge and has done a tremendous amount of work,” Parman said. “We asked too much of her, and Tim (Fleming) as well, and we’re so appreciative of those employees who have stepped up to fill the gaps during this time.”

Tuten also expressed his gratitude.

“I just want to thank Ali (Woods) as well,” Tuten said. “I appreciate you doing that and leading us through this year.”

Woods said the district will host a retirement reception during the May 19 board meeting beginning at 5 p.m. to honor retiring teachers. She said the event will feature snacks and cake, followed by a special presentation recognizing staff members who are concluding their educational careers.

“Everybody is welcome to come,” Woods said. “I’ll be sending an invitation out to the district so that everybody will be welcome to come.”