Mayfield Administrator Heads To New School District

MAYFIELD, OH — Mayfield City School District Assistant Superintendent Michael J. Barnes has been hired to lead the Lakewood City Schools. Barnes is set to sign a three-year contract with the district, according to Lakewood Schools officials.

Barnes had been rumored to be in consideration for the job for several weeks, though neither Mayfield City Schools nor Lakewood City Schools officials would confirm his candidacy.

"I am especially excited to meet the students, staff, administrative team, parents, and community members of this great city. I am looking forward to serving the District and continuing the great traditions and educational excellence that are already present within the Lakewood Schools," Barnes said in an emailed statement.

Current Lakewood Superintendent Jeff Patterson announced in November 2017 that he was planning to retire after the 2017-2018 school year. Patterson will officially retire on July 31, with Barnes slated to start his position on August 1. He will however have a 15-day transition period prior to his start date when he will be able to work with Patterson.

Barnes began his career as a social studies teacher at Mayfield High School. He is also an adjunct instructor for both Ursuline College and Cleveland State University. He moved into administrative roles in 1998 when he became the assistant principal of Euclid High School. He held that job for two years before taking the same job at Charles F. Brush High School. He held that position for a year.

He soon returned to the Mayfield Schools as the director of athletics. He then became Mayfield assistant superintendent. He is also the president-elect of the Ohio Association of School Personnel Administrators Association and the current president of the group's Northeast Ohio chapter.

Barnes has a doctorate degree in Leadership & Organizational Development from Nova Southeastern University, a master's in Secondary School Administration from Cleveland State University and a bachelor's degree in Political Science from Edinboro University.

Photo from Lakewood City Schools