Mrs. Melinda Turk is a small business owner with a strong commitment to community service and education.
Having lived in the district for twelve years, Mrs. Turk is invested in the success of Hillsdale. This dedication led her to join the Hillsdale Board of Education in January 2024 to be a part of student success, district advancement and community involvement. Mrs. Turk is driven by a desire to be actively involved in shaping the future of the district, ensuring that decisions are made with a neutral voice and an unbiased perspective based on facts.
Currently serving as the Student Achievement Liaison on the Board, Mrs. Turk is committed to reviewing and updating policies to better align with the evolving educational landscape. She firmly believes that meaningful change is best achieved through active participation, rather than from the sidelines.
Professionally, she has been honored and recognized by the Ohio Senate for attaining a remarkable record of service to the area, earning the gratitude and appreciation of many satisfied customers.
With grit and perseverance through business trial and error, Mrs. Turk has firmly established herself as a successful small business owner in the local community, amassing over a decade of invaluable experience. Her journey includes certifications as a Woman Owned Business (both WBE and WOSB designations), underscoring the depth of expertise she brings to the table.
After graduating from Ashland High School in 1995 and earning an Associate's degree from the Academy of Court Reporting in 1997, Mrs. Turk has continuously pursued entrepreneurial learning through various programs and courses.
Additionally, Mrs. Turk has served as a board member at the Montessori School of Wooster for six years, currently holding the position of Vice President after previously serving as Secretary.
Mrs. Turk's dedication to community involvement extends to Hillsdale as well. She is an active member of the Hillsdale Strategic Planning Committee focusing on academics and is involved in both the Hillsdale Athletic and Academic Booster clubs. Furthermore, Mrs. Turk shares her passion for baseball as a coach for the Hillsdale Pony League Summer Baseball team.
In addition to her professional and community commitments, Mrs. Turk is a proud alumna of Leadership Ashland, having graduated in 2018. She is also engaged in various committees focused on community development, finance, and fundraising at the Montessori School. Alongside her business endeavors, she is an active member of the Richland County and Ashland Area Chambers of Commerce for over 15 years.
Outside of her professional and community roles, Mrs. Turk enjoys reading, traveling, and spending quality time with her two children, Kyle and Morgan.
With a wealth of experience, a dedication to community betterment, and a passion for student success, Mrs. Turk is a valuable asset to the Hillsdale Board of Education.