By JARED ORZOLEK
orzolek@crescent-news.com
HOLGATE -- The current principal of Wellston High School in southeastern Ohio will take over for James Reiter as the next superintendent of Holgate Local Schools.
Anthony Meinerding, 48, of Greenville, was hired by the board of education Wednesday following an extensive interview and search process.
"I believe in hard work, caring about people and doing the right thing," said Meinerding.
"For me it's not work, it's a living philosophy. I feel confident that I have lived that philosophy for many years and it will continue here at Holgate."
Meinerding has worked in the education field for more than 20 years, starting as a physical education and social studies teacher at a middle school in Goshen, Ind. Meinerding also worked as a teacher in Brazil and the United Arab Emirates and became a principal in 1999 at Jackson Center Junior-Senior High School in Jackson Center.
In 2001, was named principal at Bradford Junior/Senior High School in Bradford and in 2006 took over as principal of Wellston High School in Wellston.
Meinerding also has experience as a coach and athletic director.
He said he learned of the Holgate community's commitment to the school through the interview process with the search committee.
"They have a lot of good people here and they care about their school," Meinerding said.
"I think I am a personable person and my personality lends itself to a place where I know everyone and everyone knows me."
The new superintendent obtained his bachelor's degree in secondary education in 1984 at Ball State University. He earned his master's degree in history from Ball State in 1985 and obtained his superintendent's license in 2001 from the University of Dayton.
Meinerding has two adult children and plans to relocate to the Holgate area with his wife, Vicki. They have three dogs and a cockatiel.
Meinerding said he did not think about becoming a superintendent until nine years ago when his educational career shifted to administration.
"I am glad the opportunity presented itself in Holgate. I think I can come here and be part of the community and be successful," he said.
He praised the new Holgate school facilities.
"I know the students and the teachers really appreciate it. I can see how well the kids and the staff are taking care of it so far."