COLUMBIANA — Five candidates will vie for three Columbiana school board seats in November.

Incumbents Scott Caron, who didn’t return a questionnaire, and Michael Clark are seeking re-election again challengers Nicholas Clemmer, Dylan Fletcher and Jake Ward.

Michael Clark

Clark, of Parkview Drive in Columbiana, has served a dozen years on school board and wants to continue his service with the district especially considering how state funding is potentially impacting public schools.

“I believe that my work with the Columbiana school board is not yet complete,” he explained. “I still have much to offer to make sure that each student is able to achieve their greatest potential whether that is continuing (to an university setting), attending a trade school, joining the armed services or becoming an integral part of the workforce.”

In addition to working as a business analyst for University Hospitals, he has served on Columbiana’s Tourism board, co-chairing the Joy of Christmas Light Show; the Columbiana Craft Beerfest board; served on the Stadium committee on behalf of the board; and served as co-treasurer for the Columbiana Fourth of July fireworks committee.

Clark cites the three biggest accomplishments made at Columbiana school district during his service, including middle school upgrades, the district’s academic rating on state report cards, improved communication between the city and the district.

He points out that if voters re-elect him, they can expect no learning curve as he is already aware of what is expecte due to his years of experience.,

“I have seen first-hand what it takes to help develop well-rounded students who can become productive members of society, hopefully remaining in our community,” he explained.

Clark has been married 26 years to Karen and has three adult children, Noah, Hannah and Rebekah.

Nicholas Clemmer

Clemmer, of North Main Street in Columbiana, considers his military service and his ability to relate to local families two of his biggest assets in his school board candidacy.

Employed as a journeyman electrician, he served as a member of the U.S. Army 3rd Infantry after graduating from Crestview high School and completing a apprentice program.

Clemmer not only serves as the program director at Joshua Dixon Elementary School for the All Pro Dads’ group but also serves the Columbiana Little Clippers as both athletic director and coach for its football program.

He also founded the Soldiere Samaritan, which is a 50a)c)3 serving Columbiana County youth and holds membership in American Legion Post 290.

Previous Clemmer sought election to school board in 2023 but was not elected.

Clemmer and his wife of 13 years Erin have three children, Annah, Leah and Alex.

“For me, (service) isn’t about politics but about community and pride. It is about investing in the future of Columbiana through strong leadership, strong partnerships, transparency and a commitment to putting students first,” he concluded.

Dylan Fletcher

Fletcher, a business administration student at Kent State University, himself is a Columbiana High School graduate.

He is seeking election on a “Education First” platform, which includes creation of safe and supportive learning environments; striving for excellent educational experiences; preparing students for their futures that include college, careers and life readiness; and strengthen community and educational partnerships.

“My goal is to be a thoughtful, solution-focused voice on the board,” he explained. “That means making responsible financial decisions, while ensuring students have the tools, teachers have the support and families have the confidence that our schools are preparing kids for success.”

Fletcher emphasized that Columbiana’s strength lies in community involvement and transparency. “Strong schools start with strong community voices,” Fletcher concluded.

Caron and Ward did not return questionnaires for inclusion in this article.