Although a fresh face to the district, the new principal at Madeira Elementary School is undoubtedly familiar with Madeira.

Chris Flanagan and his wife, Danielle, are recognized by several Madeira residents as the devoted parents of four Madeira students. Their children include Jack (in eighth grade) and Maggie (in sixth grade) at Madeira Middle School, and Emma (in fourth grade) and Molly (in second grade) at Madeira Elementary School. Having lived in Madeira for nine years already, Flanagan is enthusiastic about this new role as principal within the community.

Enthusiastically, he proclaimed, “It is my pleasure to assist the students, teachers, and parents of Madeira. This community has a long-standing reputation for excellence, and I am thrilled to contribute to that legacy.”

Having spent four years as Ayer Elementary School’s principal in the Forest Hills Local School District, Flanagan arrives in Madeira. His prior experience consists of being an assistant principal at Mercer Elementary School in Forest Hills and an elementary teacher in Finneytown.

Flanagan expressed her belief in lifelong learning that fosters both academic and social growth of every student. She added that her connection to Madeira is especially personal as she’s witnessed her four children benefit from the exceptional education offered by the institution.

Following Tim Weber’s appointment as the district’s assistant superintendent, Flanagan will take over his role. Meanwhile, the current assistant Superintendent Kenji Matsudo will succeed the outgoing Superintendent Steve Kramer upon his retirement later this summer.

In January, the quest to find a new principal for Madeira’s elementary school kicked off with a series of group discussions aimed at gathering input from parents and staff. The goal was to identify the desired traits and qualities for the incoming principal.

Matsudo stated that successful groups shared a common trait – their leaders possessed an acute understanding of small-town education, were proficient in curriculum and leadership, and were highly dedicated to their students. Mr. Flanagan’s exceptional ability to foster positive relationships and his track record of boosting student academic performance as an elementary school principal made him the ideal candidate to head Madeira Elementary.

According to Kramer, the feedback provided by both parents and staff was crucial during the process.