Purple Precision

The Martins Ferry School District gets it done correctly. The Purple Riders' school board some 10 years ago chose one of its own by selecting Nick Stankovich to run the show. The decision paid major dividends. The former Purple Riders' grid and track standout took the school district to another level in his tenure as superintendent. In addition to the new state-of-the-art school campus, the district boasts a football stadium second to none, but more importantly, academic success, second to none in Belmont County. Stankovich's 10-year run will be remembered as one of great growth in the district -- be it with physical construction or in the classroom. The school board recently made another wise move, ensuring a seamless transition by naming Dirk Fitch as Stankovich's eventual successor. Fitch has worked up the Purple ladder to his current post of assistant high school principal. He has the respect of staff and students alike as well as the knowledge, personality and vision to continue the district's ascent.