Perrysburg Superintendent Tom Hosler Resigns
Superintendent Tom Hosler is stepping down from his position as superintendent of Perrysburg Schools to become chief executive officer of the Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA), marking the end of an 18-year tenure that has transformed the district into one of Ohio’s top-performing public school systems.
Hosler, who has served since 2007, is Perrysburg’s longest-tenured superintendent. Under his leadership, the district experienced a 25% increase in student enrollment and passed nine school levies.
He oversaw the opening of Hull Prairie Intermediate School and worked with Maumee City Schools to create the Perrysburg Schools Preschool Program at Union School. His forward-thinking initiatives included launching a development program that secured millions of dollars in support, including the district’s first gift exceeding $1.5 million.
He also led improvements to district facilities by blending private and public funds, including enhancements to outdoor athletic venues and the construction of an athletic center at Steinecker Stadium. Beyond the local level, Hosler played a key role in shaping Ohio’s new school funding formula, reflecting his commitment to systemic, equitable support for public education.
“Tom has guided Perrysburg Schools through an era of unprecedented growth and achievement,” said Board of Education President Susan Rowland Miller. “His vision, energy, and deep commitment to students have left an enduring legacy that will benefit this community for generations to come.”
Former board member Walt Edinger, who was involved in Hosler’s hiring, added, “What he accomplished in the years since has far exceeded expectations. Perrysburg is stronger because of his leadership.”
Despite these accomplishments, Hosler’s leadership faced challenges, most notably when the failure of an incremental levy in November resulted in an immediate $13.4 million revenue loss, approximately 20% of the district’s operating budget.
The district responded by cutting $5.5 million, including reductions in staff, clubs, and extracurriculars, and utilizing $7.5 million from reserves to fill the gap. Perrysburg Schools is now seeking voter approval for a 7.83-mill levy this November to stabilize its finances; further cuts are likely without its passage.
Throughout his career, Hosler remained grounded in the heart of education, spending more than a decade advising student clubs at Perrysburg High School.
“Serving as superintendent of Perrysburg Schools has been the privilege of my career,” Hosler said. “Together, we’ve navigated growth, expanded opportunities for all students, and built a reputation for excellence that is recognized across Ohio. While it is bittersweet to leave, I look forward to supporting public education across the state through OSBA — and I will always carry Perrysburg with me.”
As Perrysburg prepares for this leadership transition, the Board of Education will meet in executive session on Wednesday to begin its discussions.
In the face of financial challenges and leadership change, the district’s ongoing efforts to protect every child’s right to a quality education remain paramount. The outcome of the upcoming levy and leadership decisions will significantly shape how Perrysburg continues to uphold this fundamental right in the years ahead.
