The Mason City Schools Board of Education unanimously approved a new contract for Superintendent Jonathan Cooper at its June 22 meeting - ensuring that the nationally respected CEO will continue to lead the high-performing destination district through the 2025-2026 school year.

“Over the course of his first three years as Superintendent, Jonathan has demonstrated a relentless commitment to building meaningful relationships and inspiring innovation throughout the Mason City Schools community,” said Charles Galvin, MCS Board President.  “His efforts have ensured that our Comets have continued to thrive, even amidst unprecedented challenges.  He has quickly established a reputation as a leader among his peers in Ohio and across the country.” 

Cooper expressed his gratitude about continuing to serve Mason students, staff, and the community.

"I am grateful for the School Board’s support and confidence and am thankful to serve with a team of leaders who are simply the best,” said Cooper. “There is so much to be proud of and grateful for in Mason. We have top-notch staff, incredibly talented and hard-working students, and a community that is committed to giving its children opportunities that make this a destination for families from around the globe. I can’t wait to see what we will all accomplish together during the next chapter of our Comet Story."

Under the new contract, the board approved raising Cooper’s salary to $200,000. “This past spring we saw a tremendous amount of turnover among superintendents in Ohio, especially our region,” Galvin stated.  “After studying the increasingly competitive market for superintendents, we felt it was important to align ourselves with that market to ensure stability for Mason City Schools as we embark on our ‘Journey to 2030.’ The Board believes this contract balances our interests in being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars with retaining exceptional talent.”

Cooper was hired as Mason City Schools superintendent in July 2018.