Melissa Conrath has received a glowing performance review and a 3.25 percent salary increase from the Worthington Board of Education.

The superintendent's salary will be $141,785, retroactive to Aug. 1. It was approved by the board on Monday night.

Conrath has held the top school district job since January 2006, when she was hired to replace Rick Fenton. She was previously superintendent of Big Walnut Schools.

"She's done a great job," said board president Robert Horton. "The board is delighted with her performance. We get nothing but positive feedback."

The official review document is a letter from the board. It commends Conrath for her willingness to become involved in the community, her fiscally prudent management style, and her effort to articulate a clear vision for the schools.

"As you've come to realize, the first step to becoming a successful and effective superintendent in Worthington begins with a genuine interest in the community, a willingness to listen, and the perceived ability of being in multiple places at the same time," the letter states.

The board also commended her for identifying and implementing budget reductions and for her role in passing the November 2006 bond issue.

"The board is also mindful of your efforts to articulate a clear vision for the Worthington Schools and your leadership in nurturing innovative programs like Project Lead the Way and the Phoenix School," the letter states.

The board also expressed its appreciation of Conrath's goals for 2007-08, which she presented during the review process.

The board encouraged her to pursue her goal to work with the school community to articulate a clear vision and priorities for the district.

"By starting from this perspective, you will then gain greater insight and clarity as you address your remaining goals: financial stewardship, community engagement, leadership development," the review states.

Detailed goals from Conrath's written statement include:

Using input given from the community and staff, finalize work to define qualities of a high performing school district.

Communicate strategic message to the school community through the district Web site, community newsletter, presentations and district e-mail.

Prepare to negotiate Worthington Education Association contract.

Collaborate with new treasurer to develop updated five-year forecast.

Reduce routine legal fees and overtime.

Conduct community engagement sessions focusing on key issues facing district.

Develop a quarterly superintendent's newsletter distributed to all residents.

Host a briefing for business community.

Reach out to senior citizens to collaborate on areas of mutual interest.

Work with school community to ensure strong leadership at Thomas Worthington High School and Colonial Hills Elementary School.

Caption: Melissa Conrath