The Olentangy Schools Board of Education will accept the retirement resignation of Superintendent Mark T. Raiff at the January 26, 2023 board meeting.

Mr. Raiff came to Olentangy Schools in 2003 as an Assistant Principal at Olentangy High School. He later became Principal at Liberty High School, Chief Academic Officer for the district, and has served as Superintendent of Olentangy Schools for the past eight years.

Since assuming the role of Superintendent, Mr. Raiff has overseen the passing of two levies, the building of three schools (Berlin High School, Shale Meadows Elementary, and Berlin Middle School), Olentangy growing to the fourth largest school district in the state and led the district’s largest restructuring with the addition of Olentangy Academy and the Olentangy Administrative Offices to free up space in building classrooms. He established the district departments of Student Well-Being, Equity and Inclusion, and Safety, Security and Preparedness, while also growing the district’s robust specialized student support services. Other highlights include maintaining strong relationships with Olentangy’s valuable associations, meeting with state legislators to advocate for fair state funding, and along with his district leadership team, leading Olentangy Schools through the Covid-19 pandemic.

In a message to the community, Mr. Raiff shared, “During the last 20 years, our community and District has seen unprecedented growth, requiring unprecedented support in our classrooms, schools and at the ballot. Our community has, time and time again, stepped up and voted to support our district as we have become the fourth largest and one of the highest performing districts in the State. Without your support, Olentangy quite simply would not be the incredible and special place that it is- thank you.”

“Although we approached Mr. Raiff several times to extend his Superintendent contract, we understand and respect his decision to retire at the end of this school year and wish him the best,” said Board President Kevin O’Brien. “Mr. Raiff’s knowledge, forward-thinking approach, and commitment to our district’s mission to facilitate maximum learning has allowed Olentangy Schools to remain a top academically performing school district through some of our most challenging times. He will leave a legacy at Olentangy that he and his family should be proud of.”

Mr. Raiff plans to retire with his wife, Katie, in North Carolina and enjoy time with their four children and three grandchildren. The Board of Education will discuss plans for a Superintendent search and hiring process at the January 26 board meeting.