24-05-2025
New Geneva schools superintendent meets to residents
GENEVA — Incoming Geneva Area City Schools Superintendent Paul Lombardo met with around 15 members of the community Thursday evening at the Geneva High School cafeteria.
The event was open to the public, and organized by the school board, in preparation for Lombardo starting as superintendent in August.
'I have plans of meeting with all the [district] administrators, so I have one-on-ones,' Lombardo said. 'I'm meeting with our president and vice president of the board throughout, just to touch base. I'm meeting with our treasurer in the next two weeks.'
He said he is interested in getting to know local government leaders.
Lombardo was surprised by how many townships the district covered, he said.
Lombardo was hired as the district's new superintendent April 16. His contract runs from Aug. 1, 2025-July 31, 2028.
He will replace Interim Superintendent David Riley, who is serving in that capacity after the departure of the district's previous superintendent, Terri Hrina-Treharn.
The board selected four finalists for the position.
Lombardo said he is interested in tackling district transportation issues, because that topic came up frequently during the selection process.
'I am definitely looking to see what we can do to just improve communication, transportation routes and just looking at efficiencies,' he said.
Lombardo said he initially came up with a 100-day plan for when he starts, but that has quickly evolved into a 120-day plan.
'I keep adjusting that, and I keep looking towards finalizing some of the areas, like a big checklist,' he said. 'This way, I don't miss anything, and I have an opportunity to really hear from people and put a plan together.'
Lombardo wants to get as many perspectives as he can, while preparing to assume the role as superintendent.
Denise Scibona, a parent to a district teacher and grandparent to district alumni, said she wanted to meet Lombardo and see what he has to say.
'I am interested to see what the new superintendent hopes to do to improve from the last superintendent,' she said.
Ashtabula County Auditor and Geneva-area resident Scott Yamamoto introduced himself, telling Lombardo to reach out to him and his office if he ever needs help.
'I do that with all the superintendents and treasurers for all the schools,' Yamamoto said.
Yamamoto encouraged Lombardo to reach out to the townships in the district, he said.
'You're going to find that the township trustees are very open and receptive,' Yamamoto said.
Geneva City Councilperson Jeff Griffiths has children in the district, he said.
'It's a great opportunity to sit down and chat and hear a little bit from the new superintendent,' he said.
Board President Michele Krieg said she thought the event went excellent.
'I wish we had a little bit better turnout, but I think the setting turned into a little bit more of an intimate conversation,' she said.
Lombardo said district residents are free to reach him at his email, plombardo@ with any questions or concerns.
