Coshocton schools appoints new superintendent

The Coshocton City School Board of Education hired Matt Nicholas as the district’s next superintendent and Dr. Trista Claxon as the assistant superintendent.

Nicholas currently serves in the district’s central office as a licensed administrator, a role he has held since July 2023. He earned his superintendent’s license from the Ohio Department of Education in 2020 and brings 21 years of experience in public education to the position.

Over the course of his career, Nicholas has served six years as a middle school teacher, two years as an administrative consultant with the Columbiana County Educational Service Center, six years as a middle school principal, four years as an elementary principal and 2 1/2 years as director of curriculum and federal programs.

Claxon was hired in July 2023 as an assistant principal at the district’s elementary building and most recently held the position of principal at the junior high. She will work closely with district administrators and building leaders to support curriculum, staff collaboration and continuous improvement efforts aligned with the district’s mission.

Board members expressed confidence the leadership experience of both Nicholas and Claxon will help further the district’s strategic goals and enhance opportunities for students, staff and families across the district. Coshocton City Schools remains committed to providing a high-quality educational experience for all students and believes the leadership of both Nicholas and Claxon will play an important role in supporting that vision.