FHSD to Partner with Hamilton County ESC for Superintendent Search

At a Special Board of Education meeting held Monday, February 23, 2026, the Forest Hills School District Board of Education announced it will partner with the Hamilton County Educational Service Center (ESC) to lead the search for the district’s next superintendent. Superintendent Larry Hook announced his resignation at the Board’s Regular Meeting on February 18, 2026. His resignation will take effect at the end of the current school year.

During the February 23 meeting, the Board reviewed the superintendent search process, received a presentation from Marlon Styles, Superintendent in Residence at Hamilton County ESC, and approved Hamilton County ESC to serve as the search firm.

“The Board of Education looks forward to hearing from our students, staff and community members as we embark on the critical task of selecting the next superintendent of our school district,” Board President Wendy Strickler said. “We are committed to identifying a leader who will build on our school district’s tradition of educational excellence, and community input will play a vital role as we determine the qualities and vision we seek in our next superintendent.”

Hamilton County ESC brings extensive experience supporting school districts and developing educational leaders throughout the region. Through this partnership, the Board will work closely with ESC consultants to gather community feedback, develop a clear leadership profile and establish a comprehensive search timeline. The Hamilton County ESC search team will meet with the Board in early March to outline next steps and finalize the process.

The Board of Education is committed to a transparent and thoughtful search that reflects the priorities of the Forest Hills community. Parents, staff, students, residents and community partners will have opportunities to provide input to help define the leadership qualities and characteristics most important in the district’s next superintendent.