Fairfield Local Schools announces intent to name Matthew Murphy as next superintendent

Fairfield Local Schools

Pending board approval at the May 26 Fairfield Local Schools Board of Education meeting, the district intends to name Matthew A. Murphy as the district’s next superintendent.

Murphy currently serves as the middle school principal at Huntington Local Schools and brings more than 26 years of experience in public education, including roles as a teacher and educational leader. If approved, he will officially begin serving as superintendent on Aug. 1, 2026, succeeding Dr. Kesia McCoy, who was recently named superintendent of Wilmington City Schools.

Throughout the search process, the Fairfield Local Board of Education focused on identifying a leader who would continue the district’s strong tradition of academic excellence, student-centered decision-making, and community engagement.

“Throughout the interview process, Mr. Murphy demonstrated a genuine passion for students, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of the importance of relationships within a school community,” said Ron Friend, President of the Fairfield Local Board of Education. “We believe he is someone who will continue to build on the great things happening at Fairfield while helping lead our district into the future.”

During his time at Huntington Local Schools, Murphy helped lead initiatives focused on academic growth, career readiness, student leadership opportunities, and community engagement. Under his leadership, the middle school earned a 3-Star rating and a 4-Star Gap Closure rating on the Ohio State Report Card. He also helped establish additional career and technical education opportunities for students and developed programs focused on mentoring and student success.

Murphy holds a master of science in educational leadership from the University of Dayton and a bachelor of science degree from Shawnee State University. He also holds professional licenses as a superintendent, principal, and teacher through the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce.

“I am honored, blessed, and excited to be joining the Fairfield Lion Family and the Leesburg community as the next superintendent of Fairfield Local Schools,” Murphy said. “Going through the interview process, I learned Fairfield has a proud tradition of excellence, strong community support, and a deep commitment to our students. I am committed to building on and supporting these foundations together.

“By working collaboratively with our staff, families, students, and community members, we will continue to uphold the rich traditions of Fairfield Local Schools while providing every student with a high-quality education so they are career-ready and leading tomorrow.”

Murphy shared throughout the interview process his passion for creating strong school cultures centered on relationships, collaboration, and opportunities for all students. His leadership philosophy emphasizes community partnerships, transparency, and maintaining high expectations while supporting the needs of every learner.

“We are excited to welcome Mr. Murphy and look forward to his leadership as he continues building on the strong foundation already in place throughout our district. From expanding career readiness opportunities to staying grounded in our mission and Portrait of a Lion, we are excited for the future as he gets to know the heart of the Fairfield community and the traditions, relationships, and values that make our district unique,” said Mrs. McIntosh, Vice President of the Fairfield Local Board of Education.

The Board of Education would like to thank the staff, students, families, and community members who participated in the superintendent search process and provided valuable feedback throughout the selection process.

Fairfield Local Schools remains committed to “Building Tomorrow, Today” while continuing to provide meaningful opportunities and experiences for every student.