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Fort Recovery Schools Celebrate Strong Start, Five-Star Rating, and Major Improvements

Fort Recovery Local Schools are marking a strong start to the 2025–26 academic year, highlighted by statewide academic recognition, building upgrades, and continued community support. Superintendent Tony Stahl shared the updates during WCSM Radio’s Back to School series, noting that the district has momentum both inside and outside the classroom.

Stahl said the fall has been packed with student successes, including regional runs in multiple sports, a strong showing at the National FFA Convention, and a Veterans Day program that welcomed about 50 local veterans. He credited staff, students, and parents for creating what he called “a really good, strong start to the school year.”

Fort Recovery also earned a 5-star district rating for the second year in a row, with improved Performance Index scores. Stahl said maintaining that level is not easy and credited the district’s team approach — including teachers, support staff, and parents who stay involved in their children’s learning.

A major facilities upgrade was completed over the summer, with a nearly $1 million HVAC replacement project at the elementary and middle school. Stahl said the work was finished on a tight timeline and is part of a long-range facility plan designed to keep the district efficient and fiscally responsible.

The superintendent also praised the district’s five-member Board of Education, all with multiple years of service. Two members were recently re-elected. Stahl called board continuity a “huge part of our success,” helping guide planning and oversight.

Looking ahead, the district continues its multi-year academic materials review, moving from traditional textbooks to more flexible online curriculum. Fort Recovery is working with regional education partners to ensure high-quality instructional materials and teacher support.

The district is also actively hiring bus drivers, offering training reimbursement and stipends. Fort Recovery runs about 500 miles per day when combining regular routes, Tri-Star transportation, special-education trips, and extracurricular travel.

Stahl also discussed emerging statewide issues, including school cybersecurity mandates and the ongoing property tax reform debate. He said the district is working to stay transparent with residents and make sure new rules don’t compromise safety or local services.

WCSM’s Back to School series continues this week with more Fort Recovery staff and student features.