Amanda Rassi, who has served as assistant principal of Chagrin Falls High School (CFHS) since 2015, has been named the next principal of the school. She replaces Mike Janatovich, who left the District to become the principal of Independence High School. She officially was approved at the July 19 Board of Education meeting.
As assistant principal of CFHS, Rassi oversaw student services at the building level, such as clubs and activities, Link Crew, Tiger Perk, Bridge to the World, Senior Project, and community service projects. At the District level, she is the committee chair for the District Safety Committee and worked closely in the safety and security plans for the district.
Prior to joining Chagrin Falls High School, Rassi was the assistant principal at Maple Heights High School. She completed both her undergraduate and graduate work at Kent State University. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Education in 2008. Her Master’s degree was obtained in 2013 in the field of Educational Administration. She is also a member of several professional education organizations.
Jen Bencko, Director of Pupil Services for Chagrin Falls Schools said, “In my time working with Amanda, I have been impressed with the relationships she has built with staff, students and families. I’m confident that under her leadership, we will continue to build a strong sense of community for our District.”
Over 15 applicants applied for the position over a 10-day posting window. Following a screening process, first round interviews were held with an administrative team on July 5. Three candidates were invited to a final round interview on Thursday July 6 with more than 20 stakeholders including students, parents, high school teachers representing various departments, classified staff, and administrators. The interview team’s feedback was strongly in favor of Ms. Rassi as the clear choice for the next principal of Chagrin Falls High School.
“Ms. Rassi has served eight years as assistant high school principal and has gone above and beyond to serve students, staff, parents and community,” said Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Penczarski, Chagrin Falls Schools. “Her commitment to Chagrin students, staff and families is something we heard over and over again from the interview committee and that she could have easily left over the eight years to take a principal position elsewhere but she was dedicated to our students and families which means something and she truly understands our community. Ms. Rassi represents our District vision through the work she has done by inspiring all members of our school community to grow and thrive.”
“I am humbled and honored to become the next principal of Chagrin Falls High School,” said Rassi. “Having been a part of this exceptional community as assistant principal, I am fully aware of how remarkable our staff, students, and families are and I look forward to continuing to serve them in this new role.”