He’s No “Stranger” to The Canton City School District!

Here’s a Q&A with the New McKinley Principal, Sean Stranger

By Erin Ponn

Native Cantonian and 1990 McKinley graduate Sean Stranger is the new lead principal. He steps in as Jonas Wertin becomes the district’s student information and systems coordinator.

Stranger graduated from Mount Union College and earned his master’s degree from Ashland University.

Stranger joined the district as a Health, Physical Education, and Weight Training teacher in 1996 and has coached football, track & field, and volleyball over the years. His leadership positions over the last sixteen years include athletic director, assistant principal, and district athletic director.

“I have learned many lessons in all of those roles over the years from many different coworkers, leaders, and students,” he said. “I look at all opportunities with a lens to coach the situation or individual.”

He and his wife Melissa have two daughters, Rebekah and Rachel.

Q: What do you want people to know about you?

A: I am very passionate about making a difference in the lives of students and the citizens of Canton. I deeply desire McKinley High School to be a school that we can all be proud of, where students can come to learn and prepare for a future that has as many doors open as possible. I want to create opportunities for all students to be successful.

Q: What are your top three priorities for the new school year?

A: Celebrate Excellence. Build Community. Develop Leaders. All of the work that we do at McKinley must focus on those three areas. All of us will be self-disciplined, prepared, and engaged each and every day. If we can do this, success will follow quickly and an improved experience for everyone.

Q: What are you most looking forward to in regard to the new school year?

A: I am looking forward to a fresh start. I am looking forward to us creating a culture and environment that allows all to learn and develop into the community leaders that we know that they can be. Consistency will be the bedrock of all that we do. Expectations will be clearly expressed, and the consequences of not doing as requested will also be made readily available.

Q: From an “insider’s” perspective, what do you wish more people knew about McKinley Senior High School?

A: McKinley and Canton City Schools have been a fabulous place to work. We provide our students with many opportunities including a rich curricular and extracurricular model, arts and performing arts, and athletics. Our students are extremely talented. Our ultimate goal is to help our students realize their talents and give them what they need to nurture and pursue their dreams.

Q: What are some fun facts about you?

A: I enjoy the outdoors immensely. My favorite activities include mountain biking, fishing, and hiking in many of the parks provided in Stark County and Northeast Ohio. I plant a vegetable garden every spring and enjoy the benefits throughout the summer and fall. I enjoy playing board games and spending time with my family. Our favorites include Catan, Ticket to Ride, and Chicken Foot Dominoes. I am a member of First Friends Church and my faith is very important to me.