David Heflinger: BASA Representative Committed to Leadership and Advocacy
David Heflinger: BASA Representative Committed to Leadership and Advocacy
In a profession where leadership extends beyond school walls, David Heflinger, Superintendent of Field Local Schools, embodies the spirit of dedication and service. Recently elected as a regional representative for the Buckeye Association of School Administrators (BASA), Heflinger continues to expand his influence in the educational landscape. His commitment to shaping the future of education is evident in his service on multiple boards, including the Ohio Schools Council and the Greater Cleveland School Superintendents’ Association.
Heflinger’s role within BASA has been years in the making. While his appointment to the executive committee for Region 4 is new, he has been chairing BASA’s legislative committee for six years. Through this work, he has been instrumental in keeping school leaders informed and engaged with statewide policy decisions. “The profession has given me an awful lot,” Heflinger remarked. “I feel like the right thing to do is to give back.”
A key challenge facing school administrators today is Ohio’s education budget. Heflinger is particularly focused on proposed funding cuts that could impact hundreds of school districts across the state. “The initial proposal from the House cuts funding significantly,” he explained. “Many districts, including ours, stand to lose critical financial support.” He is also closely monitoring legislative discussions about changes to the 20-mill floor, which protects school funding in certain districts. If altered, many Ohio districts, particularly in rural areas, could face financial strain.
Heflinger’s engagement extends beyond legislative advocacy. He also serves on the board of the Northeast Ohio Network for Educational Technology (NEOnet), a regional technology consortium. “For organizations that we actively use, I believe it’s beneficial to be more involved in leadership roles,” he said. His service ensures that Field Local Schools has a voice in decisions that directly impact students and educators.
With 17 years as a superintendent, 12 of them at Field, Heflinger has gained a reputation for his pragmatic and forward-thinking leadership. One of his current initiatives is assessing the district’s aging facilities to determine whether a new building project is needed in the coming years. “Our high school is in good shape, but the middle school is a concern,” he noted.
His focus is not only on finances and facilities but also on curriculum and instruction. Long before the state-mandated shift to the Science of Reading, Field Local Schools had already been implementing changes. “We were ahead of the curve, so the transition wasn’t as abrupt for us as for some districts,” he said. Still, he acknowledges that curriculum changes are never easy. “Teachers get comfortable with their methods, and adjusting instruction is difficult, but we’re providing the professional development and support they need.”
Reflecting on his career, Heflinger emphasizes the importance of mentorship. “The older I get, the more I enjoy mentoring younger administrators,” he shared. He believes in fostering leadership from within, helping principals and assistant principals grow into their roles. “Watching them develop is incredibly fulfilling. They have the direct impact on students, and my job is to support them.”
For those entering school leadership, Heflinger offers straightforward advice: find the right fit and build a strong professional network. “Not every position is the right match, and that’s okay. The key is to be in an environment where you can thrive and make a difference,” he said. He encourages new superintendents to actively engage with regional and state-level organizations. “The superintendency can be isolating if you let it. But if you build relationships with colleagues, you’ll always have a support system.”
As he looks to the future, Heflinger remains dedicated to advocating for students, teachers, and fellow administrators. “Education is constantly evolving. Our job is to stay ahead, adapt, and ensure the best for our communities.” His leadership in Field Local Schools and beyond is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public education in Ohio.
