(PHOTO PROVIDED / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
PRINCIPAL … Zeb Frank was approved as the new Evergreen Elementary Principal following the retirement of Principal Sherrie Brown.
By: Renea Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
renea@thevillagereporter.com
The Evergreen Board of Education convened for its regular meeting on July 21, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. The board reviewed a range of items spanning personnel changes, district planning, financial approvals, and extracurricular initiatives as preparations continue for the upcoming school year.
A highlight of the evening was the official approval of a new elementary principal. Zeb Frank was offered a two-year administrative contract beginning August 1st, 2025, with up to five transition days at a per diem rate.
His starting salary is set at $84,500, with all other pay and benefits aligned with district policy. Frank brings a robust background in education, having taught across grades 3 through 5 in the Bryan and Archbold school districts.
His leadership experience includes serving as a high school boys’ JV basketball and softball coach as well as a junior high athletic director.
According to Superintendent Eric Smola, “We are excited to have Mr. Frank join our administrative team. His energy and background in elementary education make him an ideal fit for our district.”
“At Evergreen, everything is centered around student success, and Mr. Frank possesses the heart, passion, and instructional leadership necessary to help every child thrive at Evergreen Elementary School. We are looking forward to a great 2025–2026 school year.”
Frank, who lives in Archbold with his wife Carley and their three children, expressed appreciation for the opportunity. “It is an honor to serve as the next principal of Evergreen Elementary School.”
“I’m excited to partner with the parents, staff, and community in supporting the students’ growth, both academically and personally. I look forward to helping our youngest Vikings become lifelong learners and confident, compassionate leaders,” he stated.
In other personnel matters, the board approved the hiring of Sydney Pickles as an Intervention Specialist at Evergreen Elementary on a one-year limited teaching contract.
Carolee Hartman was also issued a one-year limited classified contract as a bus driver. Additionally, Jennifer Matuszewski was approved as an event worker for middle and high school athletics.
Financial items included approval of the June 2025 reports, a $100 anonymous donation to the Student Assistance Fund, and the IDEA-B federal grant totaling $283,183.66. The board also certified the total amount for all sources available for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.
The board renewed its agreement with Baker’s Propane for the 2025–2026 year, locking in a price of $1.150 per gallon, a slight decrease from the previous year.
School bus stops for the upcoming academic year were also approved, with flexibility granted to the superintendent to make changes as needed.
Fall athletic pass pricing remains unchanged from last year, with student passes at $45, adult passes at $65, family passes at $200, and all-sports family passes at $350.
An overnight trip for the high school cross Country team to attend camp in Michigan this August was approved, with students and the program covering the cost.
Another significant step was the board’s adoption of the new district strategic plan, “The Viking Compass 2025–2030.” This long-range plan is designed to steer leadership decisions and district development over the next five years.
In addition, an agreement was authorized with Advancing Fulton Physical Therapy to provide student services at a rate of $82 per hour through the 2026–2027 school year.
Lastly, a discussion was held regarding a potential campus tour in September and the installation of a new batter’s eye at the baseball field. One staff transfer was also announced, with Emily Loeffler moving from second to third grade at Evergreen Elementary.
The board entered into executive session at 6:18 p.m. to consider the employment of public employees: ORC 121.22(G)(1) and adjourned following discussion of board member questions and concerns.