By Karen Vance
Enquirer contributor

BATAVIA - Gary Brooks knows what it's like to go to school in a growing area.

As a lifetime resident of Clermont County and later an elementary school principal in the West Clermont Local School District, the newly appointed superintendent of Batavia Local Schools expects that growth will be among his primary challenges.

"I think the board viewed that as a plus. I grew up in Amelia when it was like many of the rural parts of Batavia," Brooks said. "I have an understanding of the area and of the people who live there."

The Batavia School Board selected Brooks, 49, out of 41 applicants for the superintendent post. Superintendent Paul Varney, 57, stepped down after four years to fill the newly created position in the district of director of communications and student services.

Brooks, who is leaving his position as principal of Deer Park Junior and Senior High schools, said he looks forward to working with Varney.

"I think he will do everything he can to make sure ... the district is successful," he said. "I'm looking forward to having a veteran superintendent around."

The board of the 1,925-student district on Monday unanimously approved a three-year contract for the new superintendent at $95,000 per year.

Board President Larry Vaughn said he feels Brooks' leadership style will help the district with growth, especially in the passage of a bond levy for a new elementary school, which failed in November.