EAST PALESTINE — In his first board of education meeting as the superintendent of the East Palestine Schools, James Rook expressed gratitude and enthusiasm in returning to the district.

“I am honored and excited to return to East Palestine as Superintendent of Schools. The school district has always been very special to me, and I am proud to serve our students, staff, and community once again,” Rook said. “As a school district, I think we are poised to achieve great things this school year and well into the future. I am most looking forward to supporting our students and staff so that they may reach their full potential.”

Rook, a graduate of both the University of Akron and Youngstown State University with a Master of Science in Educational Administration and state licensure in superintendency and most recently served as Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction with the Trumbull County ESC, was announced as Chris Neifer’s replacement in June. Neifer took his administrative talents to Boardman.

Under recommendation from Rook, the board tackled several personnel issues. The board approved a one-year contract for Juliet Peterson as Middle School ELA/Social Studies Teacher, supplemental contracts for Rick Gate (Head Varsity Girls Basketball Coach), Calum Watt (Freshman Class Advisor), Gabriella Tessema (EPMS Robotics Advisor), Elizabeth Sherry (EPMS PBIS Advisor) and Janet Bunts (long term substitute for HS Social Studies) and stipends for Janice Cartwright (EMIS duties) and Mary Beth DiCello (guidance duties). Resignations from Brett Hardy (Elementary Music), Danitra DiLisio (Preschool Intervention Specialist) and Emilee Heath (Freshman Class Advisor) were accepted.

The board also approved the Resolution of Intent to not provide Middle School Career Technical Services for the 2024-2025 school year, approved an agreement with Jefferson County ESC and Open the open enrollment of two high school students.

In treasurer items, the board approved the minutes of last month’s meeting and the financial reports, a contract with Holloway Insurance for General Liability, Auto and Umbrella coverage at a cost of $92,989, student insurance plans offered by Kevin L. 8-15 McKinstry, transportation contracts for 15 private-school students within the district and new funds ( IDEA Part-B, English Language Learners Title III, Title I, Preschool and Title II-A).

The district’s Back to School Bash is scheduled for Sunday. The event begins with a parade involving fall athletes and the marching band at 4 p.m. with “Meet the Team” to follow. Back to School festivities will continue until 7 p.m. The first day of school is set for Aug. 26.

The board will next meet Sept. 3 at 6 p.m. Elementary Media Center