New Roosevelt Principal Wants 'Success for Every Student'

Robert Klinar's vision as an educator and school administrator has not changed in 22 years in the education field.

"That is, success for every student, every day," Klinar said.

The Kent City Schools Board of Education voted to hire Klinar this week to replace .

Klinar, 46, of Perry, OH, currently serves as assistant superintendent for the Riverside Local School District in Painesville, where he is in the midst of teacher contract negotiations.

The Lorain native graduated from Mount Union College and has worked in a broad range of capacities as an eductor. Klinar started as an art teacher and football coach in Tiffin, OH, before heading to Miami University where he received his master's degree in education.

He worked at several Lorain County school districts before landing a head football coaching position at Lorain Catholic High School. He later moved to Lorain Southview High School and took a job as assistant principal. Klinar also served as principal for schools in Cardinal Local Schools, Westlake Local Schools and Wellington Exempted Village Schools.

The married father of three wasn't available for an interview due to the negotiations in Painesville, but in an e-mail interview he said he looks forward to becoming an integral part of the "Kent way."

Klinar said his vision of success for every student can't always be measured in academic achievement, "but can manifest itself in small ways of curricular improvement, social development and or the provision of a safe place where students are encouraged to put forth their best effort and are supported regardless of outcome.

"My interest in the principalship at Roosevelt was rooted in my strong desire to 'lead' a building whose number one priority evolved around student growth," he said.

Kent City Schools Superintendent Joseph Giancola said the district hired Klinar on a two-year contract, and the district treasurer's office is in the midst of working up a compensation level for Klinar.