William Mease - 2008
MHS 1966 Graduate
William R. Mease, Class of 1966, was nominated by Lynn Molen and Robert Gallina. Mease achieved success in high school as an athlete, leader and scholar. While maintaining a high grade point average, he played on the basketball and baseball teams, and as a senior served as student-body president.
In 1970 Mease graduated from Kent State University with honors, then began his career in public education as a math and physics teacher at Oakwood High School. He earned a Master’s of Education degree from the University of Akron. During the next several years, he served as Curriculum Coordinator for Plain Local Schools and Curriculum Director for Louisville Schools.
In 1984 he became assistant superintendent of Plain Local and in 1995 was named Plain Local's superintendent where he served until 2001. After that Mease became the assistant superintendent of Stark County Schools and served in this capacity until his death in 2003.
During his thirty-three year career in public education, Mease gained a reputation for his strong convictions, unsurpassable work ethic, and his courage as a leader throughout the county and the state. While at Plain Local, he was instrumental in creating, designing and implementing many innovative programs for students. Some of those included: the first area magnet school, discipline-based art education and a district vocational compact.
An example of the respect and recognition from fellow educators and community members is evidenced by the R. G. Drage Vocational School's Math and Science wing being named in Bill's honor. He was known for his remarkable, untiring commitment to "do what's best for kids."
Bill's community service was extensive. Some of his work included: Plain Township Rotary, Mount Union College of Education Advisory Board, and Habitat for Humanity Board.
Mease was married to the former Cynthia Kibler. He is survived by children Allison and David.