BELOIT – The West Branch school board has hired a new treasurer.

The board recently approved a five-year contract to Lucas Cooper effective Aug. 1 at $104,040 annually.

Cooper most recently served as treasurer for the Columbiana County Educational

Service Center (CCESC), where he managed financial operations, oversaw state and federal funding, and worked closely with school leaders to promote fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability.

According to Superintendent Matthew Manley, Cooper brings a strong background in school finance, strategic planning and fiscal leadership.

“We are excited to welcome Mr. Cooper to West Branch,” Manley said. “His experience and commitment to community make him an outstanding fit for our district.”

A graduate of the University of Mount Union, Cooper earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business

Management with minors in Accounting and Sports Business before completing a Master of

Education in Educational Leadership.

During his tenure at the CCESC, Cooper led initiatives that strengthened the organization’s long-term financial health, expanded operational efficiencies, and increased collaboration among local school leaders. He also facilitated county workshops for superintendents and treasurers and helped districts navigate evolving school finance legislation and best practices.

As treasurer, Cooper will serve as the district’s chief financial officer, overseeing budgeting, financial planning, payroll, accounting, investments, and compliance with state and federal regulations.

“I am honored and grateful for this opportunity and feel a strong connection to the values that define the West Branch community,” Cooper said. “As a lifelong resident of a similar, nearby school district, I understand the pride and sense of connection that make a community like West Branch so special. I look forward to working alongside the Board of Education, Superintendent Manley, district staff, and families to ensure the district remains fiscally strong.”

In May, the board accepted the resignation of Adam Fisher as treasurer, effective July 31. Fisher, who has spent nearly six years with the district, is taking a similar position with Louisville City Schools.

In other business, the board accepted the resignation of Brooke Courtney as an elementary teacher effective June 30; and hired Madison Daley as a school counselor, Monica Ewing as an aide (7.75 hours) and Jessica Sanders as an Aide (3 hours) for the 2026-2027 school year.

The board also accepted donations of $120,000 anonymously for Chromebooks, $250 from the Homeworth Lions Club for delinquent lunch accounts, $500 from American Legion Post 76 for senior school fees and $100 from Rhonda Jones in memory of Rebecca Lynn Hammond Wilson for the music department.