New Superintendent in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, Oh (WDTN) - Dr. David Estrop was elected as Springfield's new superintendent at Monday nights school board meeting.

School board members said Dr. Estrop has a proven track record of going beyond academics and they really believe he will help move this community forward.

Dr. Estrop is replacing Dr. Donald Thompson, who was serving as interim superintendent.

The 62 year old is leaving his superintendent position in Lakewood Ohio, a Cleveland suburb, to come to Springfield.

Dr. Estrop said he's very excited about his new position but knows the district has many challenges.

Springfield just emerged from fiscal emergency and four years of state supervision.

Dr. Estrop says his immediate goals are to improve student academic performance as well as keeping the district's budget on the right track.

He describes himself as a "hands on" superintendent ready and willing to meet new people and challenges.

" I hope to get out and meet people, and to listen. And to enlist people to help move this district forward. I'm really looking forward to working with the people of Springfield." Estrop said.

Board president Donna Picklesimer says his more than 30 years experience in education makes him the right man for the job.

"His experience, his qualifications, his enthusiasm, his energy, all those things make him the right fit for Springfield City Schools." Picklesimer said.

Dr. Estrop was also a top finalist to be superintendent in Cincinnati, but withdrew his name , when Springfield decided he was their number one pick.

He begins his three year contract August 1, 2009.