BLOOMINGDALE — As Ted Gorman steps into his new role as superintendent at the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, he does so with excitement and great expectations for the future.

Gorman, who spent more than 30 years as principal of Steubenville High School, was recognized as High School Principal of the Year by the Ohio Association of Secondary School Administrators for Zone 8 and said the recognition reflects not just on his leadership, but the collective work of a school community.

“I’m honored to share that I’ve been selected,” he said. “But it’s really a reflection of the amazing students, staff and families at Steubenville High School. I’m especially thankful to our staff, board of education, and superintendent for their support and partnership. It’s been one of the great honors of my life to serve as principal at SHS. We’ve built something to be proud of–together.”

His roots run deep in the county, growing up in Smithfield before moving to Steubenville where he once walked the hallowed halls of Big Red as a student. He earned a bachelor of arts degree at West Liberty State College and a master’s in administration from Salem International University, saying his path in education was inspired early on.

“I always wanted to be a teacher and a coach,” Gorman said. “I grew up with wonderful teachers and coaches who inspired me. That’s where it all started.”

He returned to SHS and would wear many hats as a teacher, coach assistant principal and principal. During his tenure, he would witness the formation of the $20 million Pugliese STEM Academy, increased student enrollment with a 96 percent attendance rate and a 98 percent graduation rate–including at-risk students. Additionally, 331 students received associate’s degrees through College Credit Plus with 65 pupils earning them this year alone. Gorman is also proud of the school culture he helped foster and successful staff retention.

His leadership extends into the community, where he serves on the Steubenville City Council, is president of the United Way of Jefferson County, a Kiwanis Club member and past president, and sits on the ALIVE board of directors. He also is president of the Steubenville Baseball Association, where under his leadership, more than 300 kids are playing youth baseball this season.

“I come from humble beginnings. I come from a large family, and that background has always helped me stay grounded and connect with others,” he said. “It gives me a strong connection to families and students–I understand their experiences and want to support them.”

As he departs SHS, he looks forward to the new opportunities that await him at JVS.

“At this point in my career, I’m ready for new challenges. I will miss all the students and staff whom I’ve had the privilege of serving over the years,” Gorman said. “I’ve always believed in giving back to where I live. That won’t change. I’ll continue to support our community and encourage the students and staff at JVS to get involved in theirs.”

Gorman said he was attracted to the role because he wanted to help even more people in Jefferson County. With the vocational school looking to become an Ohio Training Center and restructuring its programs and building space, there are many projects to help the school continue to grow and thrive.

“We’ve built something special at SHS,” he said. “And now I’m looking forward to helping even more students in Jefferson County find their path. The staff at JVS is doing great things right now. I want to come in, support them, and see what we can do together to make the program even better.”

Gorman emphasized that his family remains rooted in Steubenville and he will remain active in the area.

“We’re not moving. My youngest son will be an eighth-grader at Harding Middle School, and my wife is the principal at Pugliese West Elementary,” he said. “This community is our home.”

As he prepares for this next chapter, Gorman said he’s most looking forward to building new relationships. “I’m excited to get to know the students, staff, and families at JVS,” he said. “Together, we can grow the programs and create more opportunities for people across Jefferson County.”

Departing JVS Superintendent Todd Phillipson welcomed Gorman and wished him resounding success in the future.

“I wish him well and think he can do a great job as he takes over as superintendent,” added Phillipson, who will become the new principal at Catholic Central High School. “I’m sure he will have plenty of good ideas for moving the mission of the school forward.”

From hallways filled with Red and Black to a new office at the JVS, Ted Gorman’s journey continues, rooted in service, fueled by purpose, and focused on making a lasting impact.