2025 Convocation

Plain Local Schools welcomed more than 700 staff members back for the 2025–2026 school year during the district’s annual Convocation, held at the Plain Township Amphitheater at Oakwood Square. The event featured keynote speaker David Coleman, a distinguished member of the GlenOak High School Class of 1979. Coleman, an internationally known speaker, author, and media personality, encouraged staff to begin the year with intention, asking them to write a text message to themselves with the message, “It starts here, it begins today, it lasts a lifetime.”

Throughout his address, Coleman reflected on his time as a Golden Eagle and shared powerful reminders of the lasting impact educators have on students long after graduation. He spoke of appreciation and inspiration, weaving in personal stories from friends and colleagues who credited Plain Local teachers with shaping them into who they are today.

The event also highlighted the strong community partnerships that support Plain Local Schools. Representatives from C&A, Kent State Stark, Malone University, Plain Township Historical Society, Pro Football Hall of Fame, Stark Library, Stark Parks, United Way, Plain Township Rotary, the YMCA, and the Stark County Sheriff’s Department were in attendance. Special thanks were extended to the Plain Township Trustees, Parks Department, and Fire Department for their ongoing partnership, as well as to Canton Mayor Bill Sherer and his Communications Director, Christian Turner, for joining staff to show their support.

Convocation also featured special performances by the GlenOak Marching Band, majorettes, color guard, and cheerleaders, who brought plenty of Eagle pride to the stage. New staff members were welcomed and introduced to the district, giving the Plain Local community the chance to celebrate the newest additions to the team.

The morning closed with the annual Most Spirited Staff contest, where Oakwood Middle School took home the title, dethroning last year’s winners, Middlebranch Elementary. The district also expressed gratitude to business partners Jostens and Lifetouch for helping make the event possible.

Thank you to Todd Weber from Lifetouch for capturing photos from the day. Use the arrows below to scroll through photos from the event! 

2025 Convocation by mbeddell