Ravenna mourns principal Sheila Heiman dies battling cancer

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By Colin McEwen

Record-Courier staff writer

The Ravenna School District lost one of its own this week.

Just a few days after accepting the job as the head principal of Ravenna High School one year ago, Sheila Heiman was diagnosed with cancer.

Her yearlong battle came to an end Wednesday when she died at her home in Bainbridge Township from complications of her lengthy illness.

She was 50 years old.

Superintendent Tim Calfee said the principal was an inspiration to others because despite her illness and intensive treatments, she still came to work energized and dedicated.

"She was a very energetic hard worker and problem solver," he said. "She was working her best to do a good job for the high school. In one school year, people learned to love and respect her."

Calfee said he learned two weeks ago that Heiman would not be returning to school this upcoming school year because she was planning for disability retirement. The district must now begin its search for Heiman's replacement, he added.

She was unable to attend last month's graduation, but her comments were read aloud at the ceremony to the graduates.

Board of Education member Joanne Newhauser said Heiman was "an amazing person."

District treasurer Jerry Meyer said he remembers Heiman as "full of enthusiasm" about working in the district.

"It's really a sad, sad situation," Meyer said. "She was a great lady with great ideas."

Heiman, formerly an assistant principal for six years at Bedford High School in Cuyahoga County, had a strong background in special education. She was the mother of three students attending KSU.

Calling hours will be held from 3 to 8 p.m. today at the Stroud-Lawrence Funeral Home in Chagrin Falls, with the funeral taking place at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Fellowship Bible Church on Chillicothe Road, in Bainbridge Township.

Gifts or donations can be sent to The Gathering Place at 23300 Commerce Park, Cleveland, OH 44122.