Shawnee News

Tuesday, August 5, 2025


Hello.  My name is Tony Cox and I am the new principal at Elmwood.  I look forward to meeting all of you and wanted to take a moment to share a little about myself.  I was born and raised in Lima and graduated from Lima Central Catholic.  After graduating from the University of Toledo, I started my career in Toledo Public Schools teaching third and fourth grade. Once our first son was born, my wife, Traci, and I decided to move back to Lima to be closer to family.  

We have two sons (both Shawnee graduates) and a new daughter-in-law. It seems like yesterday when we sat in those tiny chairs in Mrs. Bell’s room for my oldest son’s kindergarten open house.  The newest addition to our family is a Shih Tzu named Sadie. 

My career with Shawnee started at Shawnee Middle School as a sixth grade teacher.  After five years in the classroom I was excited to transition to the assistant principal’s position at SMS. I earned my Master’s Degree and administrative credentials at the University of Dayton. Fast forward to today,  I have been an administrator for twenty-four years. I love the challenge each day presents.  It is a gift to encourage students to be their best, support teachers, and partner with parents as we all work towards the common goal of student growth and life-long learning. 

I chose a career in education because I have a passion for working with students and I want them to have a passion for learning.  Your student’s education at Elmwood will build upon the work you have done with them at home and continue to lay the foundation for a successful

academic career.  You have my commitment to provide a supportive learning environment.

I look forward to meeting you all.  If something is needed throughout the year you can 

reach me at tony@limashawnee.com or 419-998-8090.

Here's to a fantastic year of learning and growing together!

Tony Cox