The Euclid City Schools Board of Education is proud to announce that it has named Patrick J. Higley as the District’s new Chief Financial Officer, effective February 1, 2024. After an extensive 3-month search process, the Board voted to approve Higley’s promotion during the November 29 Special Board Meeting. Mr. Higley currently serves as the Executive Director of Business Operations for Euclid Schools. He will succeed Steve Vasek, who plans to retire in July.
“Mr. Higley’s experience and track record make him the perfect fit for this role,” said Board President Kathy DeAngelis. “We know we can trust his judgment and commitment to fiscal responsibility based on his performance during the many construction projects he’s managed in his time here at Euclid. He knows the community and already has a wealth of knowledge about the District’s finances that will ensure a smooth transition in our Finance Department.”
Known for his detailed, innovative, and communicative approach, Mr. Higley has also been instrumental in the construction of the Euclid Schools. He has served as the Owner’s Representative for the construction of the four elementary schools, the Early Learning Village, and the Secondary Campus and the renovation of the Fordyce Building, Educational Options Center, and Indian Hills School.
In his role as Executive Director of Business Operations, Mr. Higley is responsible for the oversight of Security, Marketing, Food Service, Student Registrations, Buildings and Grounds, Transportation, and Permanent Improvements. In that capacity, he worked closely with the Finance Department to manage annual budgets exceeding $18 million. He has negotiated contracts and service agreements with vendors to achieve prime pricing, leading to substantial savings that have helped preserve the District’s General Fund.
In congratulating Mr. Higley on his new position, Superintendent Chris Papouras stated: “Mr. Higley always aligns with the district mission of ‘Every Student, Every Lesson, Every Day!’ He has been an unwavering advocate for Euclid students, the Euclid Schools, and the greater Euclid community since he arrived in 2011. He has led through three goals: enhancing student achievement, practicing fiscal responsibility, and enhancing community engagement.”
Before working at Euclid Schools, Mr. Higley served as Director of Operations at Vermilion Local School District and served as the Site Manager for SBM Site Services at Cuyahoga Community College.
As CFO, Mr. Higley will work with the current Treasurer, Steve Vasek through July and will advise the Board of Education on all financial-related matters and oversee the District’s financial operations. He will be responsible for accurate and timely financial reporting at the state and federal levels, leading the development of the District’s annual operating budget and five-year financial forecasts.
The Euclid School Board thanks Russ Bennett and Steve Farnsworth from the Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio and Finding Leaders for assisting with the search.