Sprankles, who last week was approved for the top job by Butler Tech’s governing board, is currently assistant superintendent of secondary education for the career school system serving more than 18,000 high school and adult learners from Butler and a portion of northern Hamilton County.
Sprankles, who was named Ohio’s the 2022 Ohio ACTE (Association of Career Tech Educators) Administrator of the Year, has played an integral role in shaping the district’s programming and instructional excellence across four campuses, 11 associate school districts, and 120 satellite programs, impacting over 235 teachers and thousands of area students.
This week, the future superintendent took some time from his busy schedule to participate in a “5 Questions” interview with the Journal-News to reveal more about himself and his leadership plans for Butler Tech.
QUESTION: What is it about Butler Tech that made you seek to become its next superintendent?
Answer: “Butler Tech is truly exceptional. The people, programs, and culture set a high standard, creating an environment where students thrive. The staff’s deep commitment to students is evident in the way they invest time and energy into best practices, transforming classrooms into dynamic learning spaces.”
“The (Butler Tech) school board and leadership team share a strong sense of camaraderie and are dedicated to developing some of the most innovative programs in the country—programs that directly shape workforce development and strengthen our communities. The combination of strong relationships, a culture of excellence, and a forward-thinking approach to education inspired me to step into this role, eager to build on Butler Tech’s impact and drive its future success.”
Q.: On a personal level, why was this important to you and your career aspirations?
A.: “This opportunity is deeply meaningful to me because, over the past seven years, I’ve had the privilege of growing alongside an incredible team and culture. Together, we’ve driven meaningful change—not just within Butler Tech, but at the regional and national levels. This role represents the chance to build on that momentum, to continue strengthening our culture, and to expand opportunities for students in ways that shape the future of career tech education. Ultimately, this isn’t about me — it’s about the team, our mission, and the impact we can make together. That’s what excites me: the chance to keep pushing forward. Onward and upward.”
Q. What two issues/projects are at the top of your to-do list once you start?
A.: “My first official day is Aug. 1, however, over the next few months, current Superintendent Jon Graft will help facilitate a smooth transition. One of my top priorities will be advancing Butler Tech’s three major expansion projects: Launching the new Aviation High School in Middletown (Middletown Regional Airport), expanding the BioScience Center (in West Chester Twp.) and opening the Advanced Manufacturing Center in partnership with Miami University (in Hamilton).
“These initiatives are critical because they directly increase student access to career tech programs in high-demand industries. With these projects already in motion, my focus will be on ensuring the successful development of new curriculum, hiring and on-boarding additional staff, and creating a seamless launch for each program. These expansions are more than just new opportunities—they are a reflection of Butler Tech’s mission to equip students with the skills and pathways they need for the future.”
Q.: How did your initial exposure to working in career education at Butler Tech inspire you to pursue this leadership position?
A.: “I’ve come to a powerful realization: Career Tech should never take a back seat to anything. Over the past seven years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of deep hands-on learning, student-led teams, meaningful internships, business advisories, and authentic work-based learning. This is not the career tech model of the past—it’s a dynamic, forward-thinking approach that prepares students for any path they choose. Whether they enter the workforce immediately or pursue higher education, our goal is to ensure they are equally prepared for success. At Butler Tech, we’re not just teaching skills; we’re empowering young people with real opportunities and limitless potential for their futures.”
Q. What’s the main message you want Butler Tech students, school families and staffers to know about your coming leadership and what they can expect from you?
A.: “My message is simple: we will build on the incredible momentum we’ve created together over the past nine years under the leadership of our school board and Jon Graft. Our commitment to strong, meaningful relationships will remain at the heart of everything we do. We will continue to set high expectations for engagement and best instructional practices. We will stay ahead of the curve—designing innovative programs and pathways that prepare students for the future. We will strengthen partnerships with industry leaders to create even more opportunities for our students. And above all, we will remain relentless in our mission to ensure that every student has access to high-quality career tech education. The future is bright, and we are just getting started.”
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