McDONALD — The McDonald Board of Education on Wednesday accepted the resignation of Superintendent Kevin O’Connell effective July 31 after eight years with the district.

O’Connell has been named the new superintendent for Maplewood schools effective Aug. 1.

In his resignation letter, O’Connell said he had mixed emotions on leaving the McDonald district, but decided to step down to pursue new opportunities.

“It has been an honor to serve the community and to work alongside the incredible staff, students and families within the district. Together, we have achieved many milestones and I am proud of the progress we have made in strengthening academic excellence, fostering student well-being, improving facilities and providing fiscal accountability. Thank you once again for the opportunity to serve this amazing district,” O’Connell said.

The board is beginning the process to find a replacement for O’Connell, who said he will help with the transition period.

In other business, the board:

• Set graduation for 60 seniors at 10 a.m. May 24 at the high school.

• Approved the purchase of a Gordon Food Service dishwasher at $9,000 and will update the electric wiring for the new dishwasher at $3,251 through CR Electric. Also approved was paying Zabel’s Restaurant Equipment and Supply in Boardman $59,224 to equip the cafeteria at Roosevelt Elementary School.

• Approved membership in the Ohio School Council’s council of governments to participate in the cooperative purchasing programs.