Findlay extends superintendent's contract

FINDLAY — The Findlay City Schools Board of Education approved a new five-year contract for Superintendent Andy Hatton, continuing his leadership through July 31, 2031. Finalized during Monday's board meeting, the new contract takes effect Aug. 1, 2026, with Hatton's annual salary to remain at $165,000. The board may increase his salary during the contract term, but cannot reduce it except as permitted by law. The package also provides term life insurance coverage, State Teacher Retirement System contributions, health benefits, a $200 per-pay-period car allowance and a $50 per-pay-period cell phone allowance. Board members praised Hatton's continued dedication and the stability his leadership will provide to the district. "I've heard a lot of people prior to the vote on the levy talk about how you were going to leave and that you were not committed to this community and I disagree," board president Matt Cooper said during the meeting. "I think this reflects your commitment to Findlay City Schools and to the community as a whole. I appreciate everything that you have done, and I am very confident in your leadership and where you can take this district." Hatton became superintendent in 2023 following the resignation of former superintendent Tracy Roth. "I did want to say thank you very much, there's nowhere else I'd rather be," Hatton said. "I love the team that we have, not only the administration, but the whole staff. This is a really special place to be and I'm very excited to continue that opportunity." Prior to joining FCS, Hatton served as the director of curriculum at Dublin City Schools, principal at Delaware City Schools and assistant superintendent at Upper Arlington City Schools. He holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Miami University, a master's degree in education administration from Ohio State University and a bachelor's degree from Ohio Wesleyan University. The board emphasized that Hatton's new contract reflects long-term stability and planning as the district navigates its budget changes and continued growth in the coming years. "This is not a 9-5 job, this is a hundred plus hours a week," board member Chris Aldrich said to Hatton. "I can't say enough about all the work you've done and I look forward to how we can continue to improve Findlay City Schools."