Ian Orr has made history by becoming the first person of color ever to be elected to the Mason City Schools Board of Education.
“I was talking with my children about learning about all the Black Americans that were ‘the first’ in American History when I was a student. I didn’t think, based on when I was born, that I would have the opportunity to make that kind of history, but I have and I am humbled. When my family began this journey we didn’t seek to make history, we believe in serving our community with the time and talents we have. We are so very grateful to voters for giving me this opportunity to represent this diverse community, incredible students, and dedicated staff.” said Orr.
During the January 11, 2022 organizational meeting, Orr took the oath of office, surrounded by his family. The 15-year Mason resident shared his belief that the school district is the cornerstone of the Mason community, and his commitment to ensuring it continues to create opportunities for all.
“I look forward to growing and learning in this new role. We have some very experienced board members that have served this community for many years that have already made themselves available for conversations with me. I also look forward to deepening my relationship with Jonathan Cooper our Superintendent and Shaun Bevan our Treasurer in order to continue to grow in our promise to deliver Mason Quality to each and every student.”
Orr works as an Account Executive Officer with Travelers Insurance and has been named as a Top 20 under 40 Insurance Professional by the Cincinnati Insurance Board. He received his BA from Xavier University where he majored in Political Science. Orr has been involved in My Brother’s Keeper
Cincinnati as the Treasurer and volunteers as a youth basketball coach in Mason. He and his wife, Jessica, are the proud parents of MHS Class of 2013’s E.J. Class of 2017’s Maiya, Class of 2025’s Eden, and Class of 2028’s Aren.
About Mason City Schools
The Mason City School District serves a vibrant, mostly college educated community in southwest Ohio - 22 miles northeast of Cincinnati and 30 miles south of Dayton. The 25 square mile suburban district is a destination for families desiring nationally ranked schools and culturally diverse neighbors. Mason residents deeply value education, and hold high expectations for our community's children and schools. Their expectations are reflected in the school district's commitment to provide a "Mason Quality" education for each student through highly qualified and dedicated educators, rigorous and relevant academics, and excellent enrichment opportunities including nationally recognized performing arts programs and state champion athletic teams.
There are more that 10,000 students in the district, served by 650 faculty and 600 staff members. The district’s students are 30.3% Asian, 4.9% Black, 5.3% Hispanic, 5.1% Multiracial, and 54.3% White. Ten percent of the district’s students are considered economically disadvantaged.