Ohio Names New State Superintendent of Public Instruction

Veteran educator Philip Wagner to lead slimmed-down state education agency

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Ohio State Board of Education has named Philip Wagner, superintendent of Johnstown-Monroe Local Schools, as the state's new superintendent of public instruction. Wagner, who has over 30 years of experience in Ohio public education, will take office in late July and lead the newly restructured state education agency.

Why it matters

The role of state superintendent has been significantly reduced in scope following legislative changes in 2023, now overseeing a smaller agency focused on educator licensing, background checks, and other administrative duties rather than the full K-12 system. Wagner's appointment will be crucial in shaping the new responsibilities and priorities of the streamlined state education office.

The details

Wagner, who holds a doctorate in educational leadership, has previously served as a school psychologist and administrator in several Ohio school districts before becoming a superintendent. He will replace outgoing Superintendent Paul Craft, who is departing to lead the Department of War Education Activity overseeing education for military-connected children.

  • Wagner is expected to take office in late July 2026.
  • Jason Wagner, the agency's chief legal counsel, will serve as interim superintendent starting on March 9, 2026.

The players

Philip Wagner

The new superintendent of public instruction, with over 30 years of experience in Ohio public education, previously serving as superintendent of Johnstown-Monroe Local Schools.

Paul Craft

The outgoing superintendent of public instruction, who is departing to lead the Department of War Education Activity.

Jason Wagner

The agency's chief legal counsel, who will serve as interim superintendent starting on March 9, 2026.

Paul LaRue

The president of the Ohio State Board of Education.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Dr. Wagner is an experienced leader who is ready to make a difference as state superintendent. We want to make sure Ohio is a national leader when it comes to our teaching workforce, and he will position us to advance the work focused on having excellent educators in our classrooms.”

— Paul LaRue, President, Ohio State Board of Education (cleveland.com)

“Ohio is home to outstanding educators and school personnel, and I'm excited to lead the work to ensure we have an excellent education workforce ready to make a difference for Ohio's students.”

— Philip Wagner (cleveland.com)

What’s next

Wagner is expected to officially take office in late July 2026, after the interim superintendent Jason Wagner serves in the role starting in March.

The takeaway

The restructuring of the state superintendent role reflects broader changes in Ohio's education landscape, with the position now focused more on administrative duties rather than direct oversight of the K-12 system. Wagner's appointment will be crucial in shaping the new priorities and responsibilities of the streamlined state education agency.