ESC of the Western Reserve Home

On 8/13, educators joined us for Game On! Mathematics featuring Dr. Jennifer Bay-Williams, a Savvas Lunch & Learn, exploring engaging math games and strategies that support problem-solving, collaboration, and student learning. — On August 13, 2026, educators joined us for Game On! Mathematics featuring Dr. Jennifer Bay-Williams, a Savvas Lunch & Learn, exploring engaging math games and strategies that support problem-solving, collaboration, and student learning.

A great start to Opening Day! Our morning welcome and ESCWR presentation brought staff together to kick off the new year, reconnect with colleagues, and look ahead to The Year of Systems in Sync.

Superintendent Jennifer Felker and Governing Board President Geoff Kent are pictured together at ESCWR’s 2026 Opening Day, welcoming staff and helping kick off another year of learning, collaboration, and service.

Staff had the opportunity to learn, connect, and explore new ideas during a variety of breakout sessions at ESCWR’s Opening Day. From communication and technology to wellness, de-escalation, retirement planning, and role-specific learning, the sessions offered something for everyone.

Staff put their ESCWR knowledge to the test during our Opening Day team activity, ESCWR Jeopardy! It was a fun opportunity to connect, collaborate, and enjoy a little friendly competition before the afternoon keynote.

Keynote speaker Marlon Styles Jr. delivered an engaging and energetic “Make Your Move” presentation, inspiring ESCWR staff to think intentionally about the choices, actions, and mindset they bring into the year ahead.

Superintendent, Jennifer Felker is pictured beside Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer, Deb Burke. — Superintendent Jennifer Felker and CFO/Treasurer Deb Burke are pictured together at ESCWR’s 2026 Opening Day, kicking off a new year of connection, collaboration, and service to our schools and communities.

Our leadership team gathered August 6–7 at the Riverbend Hotel in Ashtabula for our Administrative Retreat. This year’s theme, “The Greatest Show on Earth: The Year of Systems in Sync,” focused on connection, collaboration, and alignment for the year ahead.

Walking the tightrope was a fitting team-building challenge for our administrators — a reminder of the balance, focus, and teamwork it takes to keep everything moving in sync throughout the year.

Umbrellas are pictured. — Walking the tightrope was a fitting team-building challenge for our administrators — a reminder of the balance, focus, and teamwork it takes to keep everything moving in sync throughout the year.

A warm welcome to our new employees as they begin their journey with our organization. We’re excited to have them on the team! — A warm welcome to our new employees as they begin their journey with ESCWR. We’re excited to have them on the team!

Staff members connect and collaborate during breakout sessions at New Hire Orientation on August 5.

Bob Timmons, ESCWR Workforce Development Coordinator is pictured receiving a three star award for our Business Advisory Council at the BAC Townhall meeting.

Stop by the ESCWR booth in the Education Building at the Lake County Fair! We hope to see you there! — Stop by the ESCWR booth in the Education Building at the Lake County Fair! 🎡 We hope to see you there!

a graphic is pictured for recruitment purposes. It directs people to the careers and contact page to find our employment opportunities.

Featured keynote speaker Marlon Styles inspired attendees at the 2026 AESA Leadership Conference in Riverside, California.

A recruitment graphic is pictured with details about our Part-Time Speech Language Pathologist open position.

ESCWR was proudly represented at the 2026 AESA Leadership Conference in Riverside, California, by Jennifer Felker, Dr. Kelly Moran, Bob Timmons, and our partner Penny Reinhart from Footsteps2Brilliance.

Dr. Kelly Moran, ESCWR Director of Instructional Programs, presented at the 2026 AESA Leadership Conference in Riverside, California. Her session, “From Cafés to Classrooms: Creative Community Partnerships That Make an Impact,” highlighted innovative ways schools and community partners can work together to create meaningful opportunities for students. — Dr. Kelly Moran, ESCWR Director of Instructional Programs, presented “From Cafés to Classrooms: Creative Community Partnerships That Make an Impact” at the 2026 AESA Leadership Conference in Riverside, California.

ESCWR celebrated America’s 250th birthday at the June 30 Governing Board meeting, joining communities across the country in recognizing this historic milestone.

Northeast Ohio Superintendent/Treasurer Leadership Retreat, June 11, 2026

Latest News

ESCWR Announces New Partnership with Education Alternatives

The Educational Service Center of the Western Reserve is pleased to announce a new partnership with Education Alternatives through a 10-year lease agreement for the Hadden School Property in Painesville.

ESCWR and Crossroads Health Expand Partnership at Hale Road Campus

Crossroads Health and the Educational Service Center of the Western Reserve are expanding their partnership through the relocation of Crossroads Health’s Mental Health Day Treatment Program to ESCWR’s Hale Road Campus in Painesville Township. Beginning this fall, the partnership will provide coordinated behavioral health, healthcare, and educational support for children and families throughout Lake and surrounding counties.

Fall Professional Development Preview Now Available

The ESC of the Western Reserve is excited to share our Fall Professional Development Preview for the 2026–2027 school year.

ESCWR Featured on Brighter Together Podcast

Dr. Kelly Moran, ESCWR’s Director of Instructional Programs, and Mrs. Nancy Santilli, Director of Superintendent Support Services and Gaitway High School Administrator, recently joined the Brighter Together podcast to discuss the Educational Service Center of the Western Reserve and the important role ESCWR plays in supporting schools.

ESCWR Fiscal Department Honored with State Auditor's Award

ESCWR is proud to share that its Fiscal Department has received the Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the State Auditor’s Office for Fiscal Year 2025.

More News

About ESCWR

The Educational Service Center of the Western Reserve (ESCWR) plays a crucial role in enhancing education within Northeast Ohio. With a steadfast commitment to our counties, region, and state, we strive to serve the students and staff of local exempted villages, city school districts, and joint vocational schools. As the educational landscape in Ohio undergoes rapid evolution, we understand the significance of adaptability, innovation, and dynamic leadership.