Celina City Schools Announces Administrative Changes Ahead of 7–12 Building Transition

CELINA — Celina City Schools Superintendent Brooke Gessler has announced a series of administrative changes set to take effect over the next 2 school years as the district prepares for major building transitions.

By 2027, the district will move from 5 separate school buildings to 2. As staff settle into the new Celina Elementary School and prepare for the upcoming 7–12 transition and opening of a new secondary building, Gessler said aligning leadership roles is key to supporting students, staff and long-term district goals.

The changes are part of long-term planning and succession efforts designed to ensure continuity, strengthen collaboration across buildings and maintain financial stability.

The only external hire, pending Board approval, is Dr. Kat Childers, who will serve as the next high school principal. Childers currently serves as high school principal and superintendent designee at New Lebanon Local Schools and previously was assistant middle school principal at Sidney City Schools. Gessler said Childers brings valuable experience implementing systems and processes in a secondary setting.

All other changes reflect internal transitions within the district.

2026–2027 Leadership Assignments

Celina Elementary School

• Principal: Andy Mikesell

• Associate Elementary Principal: Cory Ahrens

• Dean of Students: Tracey Dammeyer

  • Dammeyer will also assist Renee Kramer during her transition to Special Education Director.

Celina Middle School

• Associate High School Principal: Jenna Hodge

• Dean of Students: Pete Lisi

Celina High School

• Principal: Dr. Kat Childers

• Associate High School Principal: Kristy Nelson

District leaders said the adjustments are intended to strengthen collaboration, bring diverse perspectives to consistent systems and reinforce fiscal responsibility ahead of the 7–12 opening.

Planned 2027–2028 Leadership Structure

Celina Elementary School

• Principal: Andy Mikesell

• Associate Elementary Principal: Pete Lisi

• Dean of Students: Tracey Dammeyer

Celina High School

• Principal: Dr. Kat Childers

• Associate High School Principals: Kristy Nelson and Jenna Hodge

Director of Operations

• Cory Ahrens

Gessler said while staffing may evolve over time, the focus remains on maintaining stability and prioritizing student success.

“Our mission states that all students will discover their unique learning style and apply these skills to problem solve, collaborate and communicate,” Gessler said. “Strong leadership alignment plays an important role in that work. We are one district with one vision.”

District officials acknowledged that transitions can raise questions and said open communication will remain a priority throughout the process.