Board of Education

Irish Local Schools Board of Education

The Irish Local Schools Board of Education is a dedicated team of elected community leaders committed to guiding the district’s vision, policies, and financial decisions to ensure student success. As the governing body of the district, the board works in collaboration with administrators, teachers, parents, and the community to provide high-quality education for all students.

What the Board of Education Does:

  • Sets district policies and goals to align with state and community expectations.
  • Oversees the district budget and ensures responsible financial management.
  • Hires and evaluates the superintendent to provide strong leadership for the schools.
  • Approves curriculum updates, facility improvements, and major initiatives.
  • Engages with the community to ensure transparency and address concerns.

The Irish Local Schools Board of Education consists of five elected members, each serving a four-year term, working to uphold the district’s mission of academic excellence, student achievement, and community involvement.

Board of Education Members

James "Jim" Callahan
Callahan, James "Jim"
Board Vice President
Jim Callahan, a lifelong Columbus resident, brings a background in finance and public administration to the board. With a strong focus on budget oversight and fiscal responsibility, he works to ensure the district operates efficiently while providing top-tier education. He has served on the board for six years and is a proud parent of two Irish Local Schools graduates.
David Flannery
Flannery, David
Board Member
David Flannery, a retired civil engineer, has been a vocal advocate for school infrastructure improvements. Since joining the board in 2019, he has helped guide major renovations to school buildings and pushed for modernized learning spaces to support 21st-century education. He is also involved in local youth sports and mentorship programs.
Emily McCarthy
McCarthy, Emily
Board Member
Emily McCarthy, elected in 2021, is a business owner and community leader dedicated to strengthening the district’s career and technical education programs. She has been active in parent-teacher organizations and is committed to increasing student access to internships and workforce development opportunities.
Sarah O’Donnell
O’Donnell, Sarah
Board President
Sarah O’Donnell has served on the board for eight years and was elected president in 2022. A former educator with over 20 years of experience, she is passionate about ensuring student-focused policies and supporting teacher development. She holds a Master’s in Education from Ohio State University and is an advocate for expanding STEM programs in the district.
Megan Sullican
Sullican, Megan
Board Member
Megan Sullivan, a former high school counselor, has served on the board since 2020. Her focus is on student mental health, equity in education, and social-emotional learning. She has been instrumental in expanding counseling services and ensuring that all students feel supported and included in their learning environment.
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