Longtime Poland schools treasurer retires

Staff report

POLAND

During his 22 years working for the Poland Local School District, Treasurer Donald Stanovcak played a role in some of the most visible changes within the district.

He noted, for example, construction of a new football stadium and of the high school’s field house.

For the most part, though, his contributions to the district were done quietly, behind the scenes – which is fine by him.

“You’re not going to find treasurers bragging about [saving money]. It’s our job,” he said.

He reflected on some of his career highlights this week, his last before retiring Sept. 30.

“It’s just been great working here, it really has,” he said. “I’m definitely proud of where the school district was, and where it is today.”

A former state auditor, Stanovcak started as schools treasurer in 1995. He is a Youngstown State University graduate, with a degree in accounting.

He considers the biggest reward of his job, and his most-significant accomplishment, to be instances where he saved money for taxpayers.

A few years ago, for example, he managed to renegotiate the terms of a loan, lowering the interest rate the district pays. The refinancing will save nearly $1 million by 2027, when the note expires.

“That makes you feel good,” he said.

Stanovcak plans to remain in Poland with his wife, Joanne, and spend time with his children and granddaughter.

The school board has appointed Lori Posey, previously Columbiana schools’ treasurer, to fill the treasurer position in an interim capacity.