Mark Platfoot Begins New Role as New Knoxville Superintendent

Mark Platfoot is beginning a new chapter at New Knoxville Local Schools after being selected as the district’s new superintendent.

Platfoot, who previously served as New Knoxville’s grades 4 through 12 principal, was hired by the Board of Education on July 7. He recently joined Kevin Sandler on Spectrum to discuss the transition, his priorities and the future of the district.

Platfoot said his four years working alongside longtime Superintendent Kim Waterman helped prepare him for the position. Waterman led the district for more than 19 years and has offered to remain available as a resource during the transition.

Becoming a superintendent was not originally part of Platfoot’s career plan. He entered education intending to teach and coach basketball before colleagues encouraged him to consider school administration.

Platfoot previously taught in charter schools in Columbus and Dayton before returning to the region. He later spent seven years at Hardin-Houston Local Schools as a social studies teacher and varsity basketball coach.

An opportunity at New Knoxville led Platfoot to apply for his first principal position. Four years later, he is now leading the entire district.

Platfoot said one of his biggest adjustments will be moving from the fast pace of a principal’s office to the broader decision-making responsibilities of a superintendent. He plans to take time to gather information, collaborate with others and consider how decisions affect the entire district.

His immediate priority is building alignment among administrators, teachers, staff members and the Board of Education.

Platfoot said New Knoxville is already a successful district with strong academic performance, dedicated employees, involved families and supportive community members. Rather than making major changes, he plans to identify smaller improvements while continuing the programs and practices that are already working.

He described his leadership style as collaborative and said involving employees in the decision-making process helps create greater investment in the district’s success.

Platfoot also credited the New Knoxville community for its continued support of the school system.

Voters previously approved a permanent improvement levy that is helping fund major renovations throughout the school building. Summer projects include new windows, roofing, heating and cooling improvements, flooring, painting and renovated restrooms.

Platfoot said students should notice a fresher and more comfortable environment when classes begin on August 25.

Community support also helped fund the Barn 2.0 auxiliary gymnasium through private donations.

Platfoot said New Knoxville’s small size allows the district to build strong relationships with students and identify those who may need additional academic or personal support.

He also praised New Knoxville students for participating in multiple sports, academic activities, theatrical productions and other extracurricular programs while maintaining their classroom responsibilities.

During the interview, Platfoot discussed the growing role of artificial intelligence in education. He said schools should teach students how to use AI responsibly rather than simply telling them not to use it.

Platfoot said AI can be a valuable tool for receiving feedback and improving work, but it should not replace a student’s own thinking or creativity.

Mental health and social media are also among the challenges facing schools. Platfoot said New Knoxville is fortunate to have a strong counselor and generally positive student behavior and attendance.

However, he noted that social media gives students constant access to one another and can contribute to stress and mental health concerns. The district also uses social media to share student accomplishments and keep the community informed about school activities.

Platfoot’s promotion has created an opening for a new grades 4 through 12 principal. Interviews are underway, with teachers and members of the Board of Education participating in the selection process.

Platfoot said the district is looking for someone who will invest in the school and community, work well with staff and students and embrace the close-knit culture of New Knoxville.

Platfoot grew up in Jackson Center and said the similarities between Jackson Center and New Knoxville have helped make the district a natural fit for him.

He said both communities value their schools, support their students and take pride in maintaining strong local traditions.