Fostoria City Schools will welcome a new superintendent this year. Mr. Jason Longbrake will officially assume his role on August 1st. In a recent interview, I spoke with Mr. Longbrake about his educational background and his vision for the future of Fostoria City Schools.
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in education? What was your educational background before becoming the high school principal at Swanton?
Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. Although I changed my major while at Ohio State, I eventually earned my teaching degree at Bowling Green State University, and I've been in education ever since. I started out at Old Fort as a high school social studies teacher for one year. Then, I taught at Swanton for four years before becoming the high school principal for the next nine years.
2. Why did you pursue the role of superintendent at Fostoria City Schools?
As a graduate of Fostoria, as well as a resident, it just seemed like a natural fit for me. I love this community and I'm proud to be a part of it. I know there are great staff and students here, and I know the opportunities are endless. It's almost like I've come full circle, and I look forward to finishing my career at the same place that gave me the opportunities and memories I cherished while I was a student at Fostoria.
3. What is your vision for the district moving forward?
I want to make sure every student, parent, community member, and staff member is proud to be a part of Fostoria City Schools. Every decision we make needs to be in the best interest of the student. We need to be the district of choice in northwest Ohio. Every student who graduates should be prepared to go into the world, make a positive impact on their community, and succeed in whatever they may attempt.
4. What challenges do you foresee? How do you plan to address them?
The world of education is always changing, the goalpost is constantly shifting. It's critical that all stakeholders in the district work as a team to come together and face any challenge we are presented with. Teamwork and positivity are two words I use a lot, and they are things that will ultimately solve most problems.
5. What are you most excited about?
I'm really excited to meet the students, staff, parents, and other stakeholders in the district and begin making connections in a positive way. So far, everyone has been very kind and supportive and I'm looking forward to continuing that.
6. Is there any other information you would like to share with the community?
My wife, Sansanee, and I have lived in Fostoria for 14 years. We both love to travel, and both being alums of The Ohio State University, we are very passionate about the Scarlet and Gray (I may be slightly more than passionate).