This article is part of the 2025 General Election Voters' Guide produced in partnership with the League of Women Voters of the Akron Area.
Scott Quade
Nonpartisan
Campaign email address: quadeforohio@gmail.com
Campaign phone: 330-801-9152
Education: BA in English (Miami University), BS in Education (Miami University), MA in English (Kent State), MS in Education (Kent State)
Training/experience: I am a retired teacher with 36 years of classroom experience in addition to 32 years of coaching experience (speech and debate). I am on the boards of Medina Cares and Project Learn: Medina and served for 12 years of the board of the Ohio Speech and Debate Association.
Website: www.quadeforohio.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/QuadeforOhio
Previous public office: none
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
I believe that every school board should have at least one member with a background in education to broaden the scope of the conversations on policy, knowing first hand how those policies impact teachers, students, staff, and the community they serve. I bring with me nearly four decades of classroom experience as well as committee experience including curricula, staff development, textbook adoption, safety and security, and strategic planning. I am also unique among the candidates as a senior on a fixed income who can add perspective to the property tax discussions that I am sure will be happening.
What are the most significant issues facing the school district and what ideas do you have to address these issues?
We are fortunate in the Highland district to have a long time record and reputation as an excellent district. That does not make us immune to the impacts of budgeting and legislation from Columbus. I see the broadest challenge to the district (schools and community) as planning for and responding to the everchanging state mandates and budget cuts.
What ideas do you have for ensuring safety in your school district?
To be frank, “ensuring” safety is sadly a bit utopian. Enhancing safety is two fold, requiring the students and staff both to be safe and to feel safe. Unfortunately, there is little pragmatically that can be done to eliminate the threat. We are left with being prepared with vetted and practiced responses to threats. I believe we can reduce the threat significantly by creating a supportive environment established within the buildings and fostered by the community.
What action, if any, do you believe the Board of Education should take to support all students and ensure they are provided with a high-quality, meaningful education?
Beyond being transparent and meaningfully accessible to all stakeholders, I firmly believe that every school board in the state should have members going down to Columbus on a regular basis to communicate directly with the legislature. I will continue with my trips to the statehouse to meet face to face with representative and to testify at committee hearings in defense of public education at large. What impacts us as a state impacts us as a district.
Melissa Schreiner
Nonpartisan
Education: Highland High School, Bryant and Stratton College
Training/experience: Incumbent BOE member
Website: https://schreiner-for-highland-schools.square.site/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071713131155
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
I am the best candidate for the Highland Local School Board of Education because I have a strong desire to serve our district and contribute to the success of our students. I have been a consistent leader and volunteer in our community, and I am deeply invested in Highland’s future. As a former student, active alumna, and a committed parent of alumni and volunteer, I have a unique perspective on both the strengths of our district and the opportunities for growth. My first-hand experience gives me a well-rounded understanding of the needs of our students, families, and staff. I have held numerous leadership positions within the community and at Highland, which have prepared me to listen, collaborate, and make informed decisions on behalf of the district. I am committed to ensuring that Highland continues to provide excellent educational opportunities while building on our strong foundation.
What are the most significant issues facing the school district and what ideas do you have to address these issues?
It is the responsibility of the school board to manage revenue, prioritize expenses, and be good stewards of taxpayer dollars. Highland is facing a budget deficit, and the way the State of Ohio funds our district must be carefully reviewed.
What ideas do you have for ensuring safety in your school district?
Student safety is a top priority. I support regular emergency drills and strong partnerships with local first responders. Equally important is fostering a supportive school culture.
What action, if any, do you believe the Board of Education should take to support all students and ensure they are provided with a high-quality, meaningful education?
The Board of Education should focus on creating an environment where every student has the resources and support needed to succeed. This includes maintaining rigorous academic programs, providing access to technology and learning materials, and supporting teachers with professional development.
John Ross
Nonpartisan
Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond to requests for information.
Christopher Wolny
Nonpartisan
Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond to requests for information.
