LIBERTY — High school principal Brian Knight was selected at Monday’s Board of Education meeting as Liberty Local School District’s next superintendent.

Knight was chosen out of three finalists for the position that was left vacant since former superintendent Dr. Andy Tommelleo announced his retirement in November.

“The community can expect transparency and open lines of communication,” Knight said Wednesday about his new appointment. “I value bringing some of the tradition back to Liberty and listening to all of our families about ways we can improve our district. I’m definitely going to be going outside of my office and our school buildings, and going out into the community to set up opportunities for the community to share what their thoughts and ideas of our school are, in addition to what I can bring and what the school is prepared to do.”

Knight explained that his goal is to work and cooperate with teachers, students, families and members of the community, to bring out the best in the district.

“Coming into this, it’s such an amazing opportunity,” Knight added Wednesday. He also thanked Dr. Tommelleo, interim superintendent Debra Mettee, and others for helping him in the process of reviewing what would be needed for the district’s educational future.

Knight also placed emphasis on the district’s five-year plan, and new English / language arts, science and reading curriculum throughout his interview process.

“The board has been unbelievably supportive in my transition to the new role,” Knight said. “Even Hans Kirr, just coming in, he’s been outstanding. I’m very grateful that the board has been as supportive as they have been.”

Since 2022, Knight has worked as the principal of grades 9-12 at Liberty, and his resume includes that he has 18 years of experience in school leadership, compliance, academic programming, finance and behavior management support.

He expressed in his cover letter, “Over my career, I have worked with schools to create unique programs that support our students and parents in achieving their individual goals.” Knight continued, “My experience has allowed me the opportunity to work with school board members and community stakeholders to create positive learning environments and enrich ventures outside of the traditional school setting.”

Knight received his Ohio Five-Year Superintendent License in March, and he holds other licenses and certifications in student support, principal evaluation, and teacher evaluation. He is also an advisory board member for the Notre Dame College Division of Professional Education, a member of Phi Delta Theta Alumni Association, and an adviser to the Phi Delta Theta Student Career Counseling Program at the University of Akron.

Before becoming the high school principal, Knight gained experience as an attendance adviser for the Ohio Department of Education; Education Program Coordinator and Superintendent Designee for Constellation Schools LLC; Regional Technical Assistance Educator and Special Education Specialist for The Educational Service Center of Lake Erie West; Regional Director of School Operations for Summit Academy Management; and principal of Summit Academy Community School in Painesville.

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