Michael Barnes To Become Mayfield Schools Superintendent

MAYFIELD, OH — Michael Barnes will be the next superintendent of the Mayfield Schools.

Barnes left the district in 2018 to become the superintendent of the Lakewood Schools. Both districts announced this week that Barnes would return to Mayfield in August to become superintendent.

Current Mayfield Superintendent Keith Kelly will retire July 31, 2021. He led the district for 9 years.

Barnes will begin work in Mayfield on Aug. 1.

“With the announcement of Dr. Kelly’s retirement, the Board began discussing possible candidates capable of continuing the excellence of the Mayfield City Schools. At the top of
our list was Dr. Michael Barnes,” said Ron Fornaro, president, Mayfield Board of Education. “Dr. Barnes knows Mayfield. He was part of the fabric of Mayfield for many years. He has the full support of the Board.”

Barnes actually began his career in education in Mayfield in 1995 as a social studies teacher. He became the district's athletic director, then director of human resources and then assistant superintendent before leaving for Lakewood.

“It should be the charge of citizens in a civilized society to grow constantly by seeking educational
opportunities. Education is a fundamental necessity to the survival and growth of individuals, communities, states, nations, and the world, “ Barnes said. “Education is a powerful variable that can transform the consciousness of mankind. An educated individual, community, state, nation, and world is one that respects and values diversity, promotes and endorses collaboration, and recognizes the self worth and unique talents in everyone.”

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.