“Of course this is difficult news for our district,” Anderson said. “Gene is highly regarded throughout our schools.”
Lolli said he decided to resign because he may have a better opportunity in line and because he didn’t share the same outlook as multiple school board members.
“Obviously, when your philosophy doesn’t match that of the majority of the members of the board of education, then it’s time to move on,” Lolli said. “Perhaps they will hire someone who shares their philosophy.”
Anderson said he could see that recent changes on the school board and the micromanaging of some of its members had an adverse effect on Lolli.
“Since the new board has been in session, the whole tenor has changed,” Anderson said. “The staff has significantly more to do because of what they are being asked to do by individual board members.”
In November, Jim Rigano and David Petroni were elected to the Springboro school board, replacing Mike Kruse and Gentry Ellis.
Rigano and board member Kelly Kohls expressed surprise about Lolli’s resignation and the suggestion of friction.
“We had discussions, but I didn’t get a sense that there was a difference in philosophy,” Rigano said.
All five sitting school board members — including Don Miller, who was reached in Florida — said they had the utmost respect for Lolli and his work, and were sad to see him go.
During Lolli’s two years as superintendent, Springboro High School was named a National Blue Ribbon School, the district regained its top report card rating from the Ohio Department of Education and the district’s budget went from a deficit to a surplus.
Lolli resigned just weeks after the community successfully rallied to keep Ron Malone as principal at Springboro High School, after it was recommended that Malone be transferred to the district’s central office.
Lolli, who said he had been considering resigning for some time but just recently made his decision, commended those who work and attend school in the district.
“The students, parents and faculty have all been wonderful,” Lolli said. “They did not play a part in anything. I have nothing but wonderful memories.”
Lolli, who served as assistant principal under Malone from 2008-10, said he likely will go back to being a high school principal.
“I enjoyed that role and liked being around the kids,” said Lolli, who is earning $105,000 a year as superintendent.
Malone commended Lolli’s work in Springboro.
“He was very good to work with, and I certainly wish him well,” Malone said.
Springboro Community City Schools has eight schools and serves more than 5,000 students.
Anderson said the board will begin a search for a new superintendent as soon as possible.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-7325 or jikelley@DaytonDailyNews.com.
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