Each January, schools across Ohio take time to recognize and celebrate the dedicated individuals who are members of our school boards. These local leaders play a vital role in shaping the education system, acting as a bridge between the community and the classroom, and ensuring the success of our students.
The Role of School Boards
School board members devote countless hours to making informed decisions that guide the direction of our district. Their leadership shapes every aspect of education, from programming and staffing to budgeting and facilities.
One of the most important roles of school boards is to provide local control over our public schools. As elected officials, they are uniquely positioned to understand the needs, values, and priorities of the communities they serve. By collaborating with families, educators, and residents, they help create the educational vision we want for our students.
Join Us in Celebrating
Too often, the hard work of school board members goes unnoticed. This January, we invite you to join us in taking a moment to thank the members of our Midview Local School Board— Tom Tomasheski, Janet Winslow, Dan Haight, Kathy Quintiliano, and Jim Onderko.
The Midview School Board exemplifies the leadership, vision, and commitment that drive the success of our schools. Their work, often behind the scenes, ensures that all Midview students receive the best possible educational experience.
Get to Know Our Board:
Tom Tomasheski, Board President:
Years served on the Board: Beginning his 12th year
Why did you want to become a member of the Midview Board of Education? “I wanted to become a school board member to serve the district that I was so proud to graduate from. I did not go in with anything in mind, I just wanted to be a solid thinker, who would do what was best for the community.”
Since joining the Board, what is one thing the District has accomplished that you are most proud of? “The one thing that I am proud of that was accomplished while I have been on the school board would be the field/track upgrades. While I take no credit for doing any of it, I would like to think that I helped improve the end result.”
What makes Midview Local Schools unique and/or special to you? “Midview is special to me because of my family lineage who have graduated from here. I feel that I received a solid foundation in education and athletics, which has molded me into a well-rounded, public servant. I feel that our curriculum has improved immensely over the years and now offers unique and challenging coursework that leads our students to achieve their goals.”
Janet Winslow, Board Vice President:
Years served on the Board: Beginning her 12th year
Why did you want to become a member of the Midview Board of Education? “As a mother of 4 in the district, I wanted to get involved. I worked full-time, so being a room parent was hard. My mother was an educator, and I have always had a love and respect for those in education. This allowed me the best of all worlds – continue my current job, but also work in education and help build relationships between the community and school.”
Since joining the Board, what is one thing the District has accomplished that you are most proud of? “How we navigated successfully through COVID, working with everyone to find a solution for all, while putting the education needs of our students first.”
What makes Midview Local Schools unique and/or special to you? “Love the campus atmosphere and interactions it allows through multiple grade levels. It allows relationships to be built across all levels of education, whether it be through friendships or mentoring; reduces fears when changing buildings; and helps parents have their families at a central area. Our campus also allows teachers, administrators, and staff to foster a community environment for our students and themselves. “
Kathy Quintiliano, Board Member:
Years served on the Board: Beginning her 16th year
Why did you want to become a member of the Midview Board of Education? "I wasn't happy with some of the things that were going on in the school district when my children were in school. So in order for me to get a better understanding of how the district worked I ran for school board in November 2008."
Since joining the Board, what is one thing the District has accomplished that you are most proud of? “There are several things I am proud of but the most important is the levy that was passed in 2013 since it had been a long time since a levy was passed in the district, the building of the middle school, and the passing of the last levy in 2023.”
What makes Midview Local Schools unique and/or special to you? “I am a product of Cleveland Public Schools, grew up in the city, and have resided in Grafton for 34 years. The Midview family is a great community to raise a family in, and I appreciate what the district has been able to offer the students and parents.”
Dan Haight, Board Member:
Years served on the Board: 6 years, 4 months
Why did you want to become a member of the Midview Board of Education? “I joined the board to help guide the district in a positive direction and contribute to its continued improvement.”
Since joining the Board, what is one thing the District has accomplished that you are most proud of? “The district has accomplished so much in the past six years – community communication is open and transparent, our reading proficiency is improving every year, and our STEM programming, among other offerings, are second to none.”
What makes Midview Local Schools unique and/or special to you? “I grew up a Middie, and my kids are Middies. We have so much potential to build on our strengths and elevate our district to even greater heights in the near future.”
Jim Onderko, Board Member:
Years served on the Board: 1 year, elected in November 2023
Why did you want to become a member of the Midview Board of Education? “As a proud parent of a Midview student, I wanted to get involved on a deeper level so that I could serve my family, my friends, my neighbors, and the Midview Community. I hope to be a part of decisions that positively impact the next decade and beyond for all stakeholders at Midview.”
Since joining the Board, what is one thing the District has accomplished that you are most proud of? "I am proud that I was part of the decision to promote Dr. Major to fill the role of superintendent this past summer. I think that promoting from within, showed the strength of the Midview team and allowed several individuals to take on new challenges. I also feel that this allowed the school district to maintain a level of consistency in supporting students, families, and staff during the transition period.”
What makes Midview Local Schools unique and/or special to you? “I love that Midview is made up of several small unique communities that all work together to make up the greater Midview Community. I've gotten to speak to people who recently moved to the Midview area as well as people who have lived in our area for generations. It's really exciting when you hear the passion the people in the community and the staff have for the future of our school district. I am glad that I am raising my daughter as a Middie!”