WILMINGTON — A vacancy on the Wilmington City Schools (WCS) Board of Education has been announced due to the resignation of Brian Shidaker, effective Wednesday.

“The Board wants to thank Mr. Shidaker for his years of service to the Wilmington City School Board of Education,” states a news release from WCS.

In March, Shidaker won the Republican primary in the race to become the new county prosecutor. No Democrats ran for the position of county prosecutor in the primary election.

Shidaker’s resignation letter expressed, “Serving a district that has profoundly shaped my life has been an absolute honor. Additionally, having been elected as the county’s next prosecutor, a role I will soon transition into, compels me to resign from the school board as mandated by Ohio Revised Code §3313.13.”

Shidaker commented on his resignation, saying, “A highlight of my tenure was participating in the hiring of our superintendent, who has recently announced his resignation. His leadership has been essential in driving positive cultural changes and enhancing discipline and accountability within our district. The selection of the next superintendent is the most significant decision a board member faces, as it will decisively shape the future of our schools. This transition must continue to uphold our commitment to accountability and educational excellence—values deeply cherished by our community.”

The board must begin the process to replace Shidaker and name the replacement within 30 days, according to the release. The newly-appointed school board member will serve until Dec. 31, 2025.

Citizens interested in being considered for appointment to the WCS Board of Education should send their letter of interest to district treasurer Kim DeWeese at [email protected] or deliver/mail to WCS Central Office, 341 S. Nelson Ave. The application deadline is May 7 at 4 p.m.

According to the Ohio School Boards Association, people serving on school boards in Ohio must be at least 18 years old, district residents and registered voters. If they wish to continue service on the school board, they will stand for election in November of 2025 for the term beginning Jan. 1, 2026.

The Board of Education will review all application and appoint a replacement at its next regular scheduled meeting or special meeting if necessary.