The Independence Local Schools Board of Education has approved the appointment of Mrs. Jodie Hughes as the next principal of Independence Primary School, effective beginning the 2025–26 school year. She will succeed Mr. TJ Ebert, who has been named the district’s new Director of Human Resources and Business Operations.
Mrs. Hughes brings a distinguished career in education that spans more than 20 years. Currently the Director of Curriculum, Assessment, and Instruction for Chippewa Local Schools, Mrs. Hughes oversees district-wide professional development, curriculum coordination, federal program compliance, and assessment planning. She is also an adjunct professor at the University of Akron, where she teaches foundational courses in literacy and assessment for aspiring educators and was nominated as Part-Time Professor of the Year (2025).
Her leadership at Hazel Harvey Elementary was recognized nationally when the school was named a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education in 2018. Throughout her career, Mrs. Hughes has built a reputation for fostering inclusive learning environments, driving instructional improvement, and forming strong partnerships with community organizations such as Rotary, Lions Club, and One-Eighty. She also was principal for Melrose Elementary for Wooster City Schools.
“Jodie’s passion for education and ability to lead through collaboration, data-informed strategies, and strong relationships make her an exceptional choice to lead Independence Primary School,” said Superintendent Kelli Cogan. “She aligns closely with the priorities our staff identified and brings the expertise and heart needed to guide IPS into its next chapter.”
The selection process included a review of over 13 applicants and finalist interviews that involved district leaders and IPS staff. Mrs. Hughes stood out as the candidate who best matched the qualities of being student- and family-focused, instructionally strong, and visibly present in the school community.
To ensure a seamless transition, Mrs. Hughes is expected to begin a 10-day extended contract shortly to transition into her new role before the school year concludes. “I’m honored to be joining such a high achieving, dedicated, and student-focused community,” said Mrs. Hughes. “I look forward to listening, learning, and working together to support the growth of the whole child and every family.”
Mrs. Hughes holds multiple advanced degrees in education, including a Superintendent Licensure from Youngstown State University; a Masters of Education/Administrative Licensure from Ashland University; a Master of Education/Reading & Literacy from Walden University; and a Bachelors in Early Childhood Education from the University of Akron. She resides in Wadsworth with her husband, Tim, and two children, Emma (21) and Burk (17).
She will officially begin as principal in August 2025.