John Balzer is Superintendent of Adena Local Schools, a small rural district of 1,200 students in Ross County, Ohio. Mr. Balzer began his career as a music educator in 1986 and has since been involved in many aspects of public education. He is one of a rare group educators who still hold a “permanent certificate” for grades 1-8. He holds a K-12 license for Music, a K-12 Principal License and a Superintendent License. Mr. Balzer has been Superintendent of Adena Local Schools since 2016, following 30 years with the Jackson City Schools, where he served as both a teacher and administrator. Mr. Balzer has been very active in advocating for community/school partnerships in Ross County to enhance the quality of education for all students, especially those in families hindered by poverty, drug addiction, trauma and other challenges.