Former Rayen teacher is picked to be new dean at Chaney High

The new dean is looking to build ‘a sense of community within the school.’

STAFF REPORT

YOUNGSTOWN — City school officials are keeping their choice for the new Chaney High School dean close to home.

James Kosek, former teacher at The Rayen School and Youngstown Early College, was named the new Dean of Student Behavior at Chaney.

Youngstown Superintendent Wendy Webb said the decision to recommend Kosek over the 36 other applicants was based on his qualifications, past performance within the district and his experience working in an urban school system.

“He gets fairness and understands the kids, but he also has strong guidelines,” she said. “I am certain he is committed to the district, and he has a passion for urban education.”

Kosek said the most important thing he can do as dean is figure out what’s best for students.

“We need to make academic improvements,” he said. “We need to employ a sense of community within the school.”

Kosek said he will be looking to the community and parents to support his efforts to give students at Chaney a better educational experience.

“He’s got a strong character, and he’s served and helped with administrative work in the schools,” Webb said. “His performance in the district has been stellar.”

The position of Dean of Student Behavior opened up after the former dean, Robert Spencer, resigned in December, citing “personal reasons.” The job was temporarily filled by Claude Bentley, a retired school administrator.

Kosek will make $74,008 over an 11-month contract with the district, according to the board of education.

Chaney High School has three other deans: Marilyn Mastronarde, Pete Lymber and Edna Douglas.