ST. PARIS – Graham’s Board of Education named Ryan Rismiller the new principal of Graham High School. He currently is an assistant principal at Harding High School in Marion. He was recently honored as the 2017 Assistant Principal of the Year for the state by the Ohio Association of Secondary School Administrators.

“We searched for specific qualities based on a profile created with student, staff and community input,” according to Superintendent Kirk Koennecke. “Through four rounds of intensive interviews, Ryan Rismiller consistently demonstrated the qualities and experience our students and staff need and deserve.”

Graham screened over 40 applicants, interviewed 15 and narrowed its search from six candidates to three finalists in rounds of interviews over the past two weeks. The interviews concluded earlier this week with panels of staff, students, and community partners providing their input.

“In Ryan Rismiller we have found a selfless, student-centered educator from the new generation of principals,” said Board President Steve Setty. “Ryan believes high schools should provide a holistic experience for young adults.”

Rismiller has a diverse background, including successful teaching experiences in both agricultural education and special education. He has served as a track coach, FFA advisor, and has assisted several districts with their student transitions programs. He is a Google certified educator and is proficient with technology tools, something the district feels is a strength, as classroom design and teaching methods evolve. He earned his bachelor’s degree at The Ohio State University in Agricultural Education in 2004, and holds two masters degrees in both Special Education and School Leadership.

Koennecke and Rismiller have worked together before. “It’s no secret I have watched this principal develop over time. He brings a passion for instructional leadership and a collegial approach to working with teachers that I think our faculty will respond to positively. He also cares about student leadership development, and will work to expand students’ voice and choice over time.”

Rismiller will officially begin August 1. He currently resides in Delaware with his wife Katie, a nurse, and their four children Kadyn, Brett, Jordis, and Macie.

“I am so honored and excited to join the wonderful staff at GHS. The students and staff there are doing great things, and I hope to add to that mix. We want Graham High School to be the destination location in this area. The engagement level with the community and area partners is something that attracted me from the start.”

As an administrator the past four years in Marion, Rismiller worked extensively on student leadership initiatives, career and college readiness programming, and technology integration in classrooms. “Graham has students who excel in so many activities and courses. I can’t wait to work with them!”