Administration

It is my privilege to serve the Amherst community as the Principal at Marion L. Steele High School! I grew up in Elyria City Schools and attended Ashland University where I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Master’s Degree in Education Administration, and hold a Superintendents License from Ashland University as well.

This school year marks my fifth year with Amherst Exempted Village Schools. I feel privileged to be working as a team along with Steele’s outstanding faculty and staff. I enjoy watching our incoming freshman evolve into men and women who eventually go out into the world to do great things after graduation! While at Steele, my goal is for every student to meet his or her potential in a safe, caring environment. We want to expose our students to classes and extracurriculars which will help them reach their goals in life whether it be in the Armed Forces, college or the workplace.

My wife Michelle (Wellness Teacher at Powers) and I made Amherst our home in 1998! We have four daughters, Addie (2020 MLS Graduate ), Marin (10th grade) , Ellie and Lilly (4th grade) all attend Amherst schools. Never hesitate to contact me if you have any comments, questions, or concerns. I look forward to a great year together!

Biography

I grew up in the Elyria City Schools and began my career in education with Vermilion Local Schools in the fall of 1996. During my time in Vermilion, I have served in many roles: teacher, advisor, coach, and, for the past six years, the assistant principal of Vermilion High School.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in education and master’s degree in educational administration from Ashland University. I also hold a master’s degree in business administration from Tiffin University. I also hold a superintendent’s license.

I live in Amherst with my wife, Michelle, and four daughters. Michelle currently teaches a wellness course at Powers Elementary. I am honored and excited to become a part of the Comet family!

Assistant Principal's Message - Nick Toney

I grew up in the Elyria City Schools and attended Kent State University, where I earned a Bachelor's of Science degree in Middle Childhood Education. I earned a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University and hold administrative licenses for high school, middle school, and elementary school levels. Most recently, I finished my superintendent's licensure program through Ashland University.

This past school year marked my second year at Marion L. Steele High School, serving as the Assistant Principal. Previously, I taught at Nord School, in the Elyria City School District and the Maple Heights City School District. I also served as the Assistant Athletic Director at Steele, Seventh Grade Girls Basketball Coach, and Freshman Boys Baseball Coach.

My wife, Olivia, and I live in Amherst and are awaiting the arrival of our daughter this fall! We enjoy spending time with family and being a part of the Amherst community!

Assistant Principal's Message - Denise Abbott

After spending 12 years working in the Learning Resource Center of Lorain County Community College, I began my teaching career as an Intervention Specialist. Most of my 10 years in the classroom have focused on math at the middle school level with the Elyria City School District. I have been part of Building Leadership teams, serving as Special Education Department Chair for the last six years, and was a member of the District Leadership Team in Elyria before coming to Amherst.

I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Cleveland State University. I hold Masters degrees in Special Education and Educational Leadership/Administration from Ashland University.