Board

Ben Holt

Title: Board member

Email: ben.holt@madisonschools.net

Ben is the President/Owner of Embers Custom Fireplace & Gas Products. He is a graduate of Mentor High School (1995), the Ohio Center for Broadcasting (1997), Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association Government Affairs Academy (2015), and the Tri-C Goldman Sachs 10KSB Business Program (2022). Ben is a lifelong Lake County resident and moved to Madison in 2012.

Ben and his wife have 3 children who have either graduated or are currently enrolled in Madison Schools. 

In his free time he enjoys writing music, collecting playing cards, watching football, and golfing.  

Brian D. Horvath

Title: Board member

Email: brian.horvath@madisonschools.net

Brian and his wife Wendy, have lived in Madison since 2005 and have four children: Zachary, Asher, Levi, and Elizabeth that attend Madison Public Schools.  He earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Youngstown State University in 1998, as well as, his Master’s in Business Administration from Lake Erie College in 2007.

Brian is the Site Operations Manager for Carmeuse at the Grand River and Erie Dock locations.  At Carmeuse, Brian is actively involved in supporting local non-profit agencies such as Torchlight for Youth Mentoring Alliance, as well as, local communities including Madison.  Thru donation and sponsorship opportunities, as well as, active participation, he has and continues to support various sports and classroom programs with the Madison Schools.

As a Board member, I bring the philosophy that even though college is an important part of the success of some students, not everyone is destined to go to college.  The Madison public school system needs to offer opportunities to support that pathway, but also support those that will go on to Trade schools, Military, or will look for going directly into the workplace following graduation from high school.  My father went to trade school following high school, and worked as a welder until he retired and I definitely am a firm believer in the school system being able to support all the pathways that are possible following graduation from high school.  For me, the formula for successful students involves the students, school staff at all levels, parents, and community.

Jessica Martin

Title: Board member

Email: jessica.martin@madisonschools.net

Jessica is a lifelong resident of Madison and a proud graduate of Madison High School, class of 1995. She has a Bachelor's degree from Kent State University and is currently employed at University Hospitals of Cleveland as an Epic IT systems team lead. She lives in the village with her husband, Mike, daughters Becca, and Lauren, and dog Archie. When not attending sporting events for her children, Jessica loves to read, crochet, and spend time with family and friends.

Her early career was spent in public service, working at Madison Township in the parks department, then at the East End YMCA as an Aquatic Director and Executive Director at the Outdoor Family Center. She was highly involved in bringing the AHLI program to Madison Middle School during her tenure at the Outdoor YCA. She is also an alumni of the Leadership Lake County Signature Program- Class of 2014.

Jessica believes in ensuring all students are ready for their next stage after graduation, whether it's entering the workforce, going to college, getting vocational training, or entering the Armed Forces. She wants to support this goal by helping to provide the best quality education for our students and fostering a positive and engaging work experience for our teachers and staff.  

Jean Sency

Title: Board Member

Email: jean.sency@madisonschools.net

Sidorela Stani 

Title: Board member

Email: sidorela.stani@madisonschools.net

I was born in Albania and immigrated to the United States nine years ago in search of a better life and the opportunity to follow our dreams. From an early age, I had a strong passion for education and language. During middle school and high school in Albania, I received numerous first place awards as a writer and interpreter and actively participated in school concerts and events,experiences that shaped my confidence, creativity, and appreciation for learning.

I later developed a deep interest in the medical field, which led me to study pharmacy in Albania and complete phlebotomy training in the United States. Losing my father at the age of 13 was one of the most difficult experiences of my life, but it helped shape me into a stronger, more determined person and taught me resilience at a young age.

Coming to America without knowing any English was challenging, but I refused to give up. I dedicated myself to learning the language while working two jobs every day. That experience reinforced my belief that hard work, dedication, and perseverance can open doors and create opportunities.

One of my first jobs in the U.S. was working in a daycare, along with a part-time position as a busser in a restaurant. Working in the restaurant industry made me realize how much I enjoy being around people and serving others. I worked my way from busser to server, which inspired me to pursue entrepreneurship.

My husband, Tony, and I purchased Madison Family Restaurant four years ago and later opened Stanis Family Restaurant one year ago. We moved to Madison four years ago, and I am incredibly proud to call it home. This community welcomed our family with open arms and has supported us every step of the way.

I am a proud mother of three children,Sergio (11), Sofia (7), and Santino (2½),with another baby boy on the way. I am grateful to still have my mother and two brothers living in Albania, and visiting them remains one of the most meaningful experiences in my life.

As a parent, business owner, and immigrant, I understand the importance of strong schools and community involvement. Because Madison has given so much to my family, I feel a responsibility to give back and serve.

I believe every child deserves a safe, supportive, and high quality education, and every family deserves to feel heard and represented. I am committed to working hard, listening thoughtfully, and making responsible decisions that support our students, educators, and families. It would be an honor to serve our community and help build a strong future for Madison’s schools.