Highland announces new principals at high school, Hinckley Elementary

The Highland Local School District is pleased to announce two administrative staff changes for the 2026-27 school year. On Monday, May 18, 2026, the Highland Board of Education approved the hiring of Cecilia Frammartino-Kotlyn as principal of Highland High School and Ryan Taylor as principal of Hinckley Elementary.

“The Highland Local School District prides itself on a rich history of strong, effective leaders who work to maintain the highest academic standards while cultivating a culture of care, community and support,” stated Highland Superintendent Catherine Aukerman. “Cecilia and Ryan are proven, student-centered administrators who are well-prepared and fully ready to lead Highland High School and Hinckley Elementary.”

Cecilia Frammartino-Kotlyn

Cecilia Frammartino-Kotlyn has spent the last four years as a unit (assistant) principal at Hudson High School. Prior to becoming a unit principal, she served as a high school counselor at Hudson High School and Woodridge High School.

During her tenure at Hudson High School, she has distinguished herself as a well-rounded educational leader with expertise spanning school operations, instructional leadership, student services and organizational systems. She spearheaded the development of the district’s Crisis Response Plan and student risk assessment protocols, work that she later presented at the Ohio Association of Secondary School Administrators State Conference on trauma-informed crisis response practices.

Her leadership experience includes oversight of special education compliance and support systems; administration of Career and Technical Education programming through the Six District Compact; development of collaborative professional learning structures for support staff; and experience managing the complexities of master scheduling, personnel supervision and human resources functions. She has both a student-centered leadership focus and the operational expertise necessary to successfully lead Highland High School.

“I am incredibly grateful and excited to join Highland High School as the next building principal,” stated Frammartino-Kotlyn. “I look forward to building meaningful relationships with students, staff, families and the community while continuing the strong traditions and culture that make Highland such a special place.”

Frammartino-Kotlyn obtained her master’s degree in education from Kent State University and her principal’s license from Ashland University. She is currently completing a superintendent licensure program.

Ryan Taylor

Ryan Taylor has served the Highland Local School District for the past four years as assistant principal at Highland High School. Prior to becoming assistant principal at Highland High School, he served as an assistant principal at Elyria High School and an intervention specialist/special education teacher for grades 9-12 for seven years.

As assistant principal, Taylor has overseen various school operations, conducted teacher and staff evaluations, and collaborated with the data coach on academic/testing strategy. He has organized school events to cultivate a positive culture at the high school and has created professional development opportunities for staff.

“Working with students has always been the most rewarding part of education for me, and I’m especially excited to lead a building where I can be involved in their day-to-day learning, growth and success,” said Taylor. “I pursued administration because I believe in the power of strong relationships and in supporting students, staff and families as they work together to help every child reach their fullest potential. I am grateful for this opportunity and cannot wait to join the Hinckley Elementary community.”

He earned his master’s degree in educational leadership from Ashland University and a bachelor’s degree in education/special education from Kent State University.

Frammartino-Kotlyn and Taylor will begin their new roles Aug. 1, 2026.