Nichols to Begin Aug. 1 as New Falls Superintendent

As the new superintendent for Cuyahoga Falls City School District, Todd Nichols said he understands “what it takes to restore the roar” in Cuyahoga Falls.

The , at a special meeting Monday night, unanimously approved a three-year contract for Nichols. The $120,000 contract with Nichols begins Aug. 1, as well as an interim, consulting contract through July 31.

Named last week as successor to , Nichols will come to the school district from his position as superintendant in Bucyrus, where he oversaw a 1,700-student school district with a $15 million budget. Nichols' previous base salary at Bucyrus CSD was $104,900, $110,000 including incentives.

“You guys have been extremely gracious through the process, and I’m nothing less than very thankful… So, let’s get down to it,” Nichols said.

Among the 20 candidates considered for the position, Nichols had a “singular philosophy, to move each student forward in the district,” Board President Therese Dunphy said.

“We’re looking for someone who can fill not only the superintendent role, which is the educational leader for the school district, but also the CEO, which is the business manager for the district. We were impressed” with Nichols, she said.

Nichols said he will focus on a collaborative leadership style, using social media and traditional technologies to strengthen community partnerships and communicate with stakeholders in the school district to ensure students’ continued academic success.

Nichols holds a doctoral degree in leadership studies from Bowling Green State University, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in science and mathematics education, and a master’s degree in educational administration and supervision from the University of Toledo.

Nichols’ wife, Sherri, and son, Anthony, 9, who will enter fourth grade in the school district next year, attended the special meeting. The Nichols also have three daughters, ages 22, 24 and 29.

Vice President Dave Rump said input from the community during stakeholder interviews with candidates was helpful to the selection process.

“I really am glad it went so well, and that we really pulled together on this,” he said.