NORTH RIDGEVILLE, Ohio - The search is over for a new school district superintendent in North Ridgeville. On Feb. 10, the Board of Education announced its choice at a special meeting.

Roxann Ramsey-Caserio will replace the retiring James Powell, who headed the district for the past four years.

The board's search to find his replacement began last October. Using a consulting firm, a profile was developed using more than a dozen focus groups that included members of the school community, as well as the general public.

The applicants were first whittled down to eight, then two finalists were presented to school staff and city residents. All were given the chance to ask questions. The two then gave their final presentations to the school board.

According to the district's press release, Ramsey-Caserio has been the Lakewood City School District's assistant superintendent for the past three years. Prior to being appointed to that position, she was the director of teaching and learning for the Lakewood schools.

The release notes that Ramsey-Caserio holds a bachelor's degree in English and a master's degree in education administration from John Carroll University.

School board President Kelly McCarthy said: "The Board of Education is excited to welcome Roxann Ramsey-Caserio as the superintendent of North Ridgeville City Schools. Roxann's leadership, passion for learning and dedication to students makes her the ideal leader for our district."

Ramsey-Caserio begins her new duties on Aug. 1.

For anyone wishing to meet her, there will be a reception on Feb. 20 after a 6 p.m. school board meeting in the Academic Center cafetorium, 34620 Bainbridge Road, where the new superintendent will address the public.