PEMBERVILLE – After nearly 16 years on the Eastwood Schools Board of Education, Robert Kuhlman is
stepping down, citing a future potential conflict of interest.
“Thank you for your service,” said board President Sherri Sheffler.
“It’s been a pleasure,” Kuhlman responded. He then motioned to the administrators in the crowd and added
“we’re lucky to have you.”
His resignation was effective Monday, immediately following the school board meeting.
“I have a couple things coming up that will cause some conflicts of interest, both professionally and
personally,” Kuhlman said, declining to elaborate.
Superintendent Brent Welker posted the opening Tuesday. The board will set a time to interview potential
candidates.
The board has 30 days to find a replacement, otherwise one will be appointed by the Wood County probate
judge.
“You’ve been a wonderful board member and a wonderful ambassador for Eastwood,” said board member Denis
Helm. “I personally thank you for all the help that you give us.”
“Some major things have happened in the last 16 years, if you think about it,” said board member Jim
Rogers. “You have served our community well.”
Kuhlman cited levies passing and a school building as good things that have happened at Eastwood.
“We’ve had a lot of highs,” he said. “We’ve been able to get community support for passing our levies. We
were able to get the new school, we’ve improved our technology department. It’s been very productive.”

The key, he said, is the administration that has created a team that works well together.
Kuhlman’s impact while on the board was “significant,” said Superintendent Brent Welker. “His steady,
pragmatic leadership helped steer the district on a course where have prospered academically and
financially. He stood tall when the challenges were the greatest and allowed others to enjoy the
spotlight during the best of days.”
Helm, who has served on the board for 38 years, praised Kuhlman for the free legal counsel “that has been
invaluable. We are fortunate to have an attorney on the board for that very reason.”
Kuhlman is a senior partner with the law firm of Kuhlman & Beck.
“He’s been a doggone good board member,” Helm said.
Kuhlman’s replacement will serve until his term expires at the end of this year. To keep the seat, that
person will have to run for election in November.