North Canton City Schools

North Canton City Schools is proud to participate in Ohio’s Military Recruit Award Program, an initiative designed to welcome eligible military members, veterans, and their spouses into the education workforce. The program provides a $3,000 hiring bonus for individuals who begin full-time employment—certified or classified—on or after July 1, 2023. After one year of service, the State of Ohio reimburses school districts for the bonus and associated costs.

This program not only supports those who have served our nation, but also strengthens schools by bringing their leadership, resilience, and experience into classrooms and buildings across the state.

We are honored to introduce several NCCS staff members whose military service continues to shape the work they do every day in support of our students.

Josh Cooke – Custodian, North Canton Intermediate School
Before joining NCCIS, Josh served in the U.S. Air Force from 1993–1998 as part of Air Force Security Police. His assignments included guarding Air Force One, working in the command center, and providing security for nuclear assets. His service took him to Italy for three years, as well as to Washington, D.C., and Michigan. Josh also served during the Bosnia conflict in 1995.

Kevin Anderson – Bus Driver, NCCS Transportation
Kevin served four years in the U.S. Army as an engineer. He was stationed at Fort Lewis in Washington before deploying to Iraq. Following an injury sustained during deployment, he medically retired at the rank of Corporal. Kevin’s experience and dedication continue to guide his work with students and staff.

Amber Hicks – Food & Consumer Sciences Teacher, Hoover High School
Amber served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Military Police Officer and was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in California. While preparing for deployment to Iraq, she sustained an injury and was medically separated. Amber continued her service through Security Management after marrying her husband, also a Marine. The couple later served in Quantico, Virginia, where Amber worked with the Presidential Helicopter Squadron before both retired and returned home to Ohio.

North Canton City Schools is grateful for the service and continued contributions of Josh, Kevin, Amber, and all veterans and military family members in our Viking community. Their leadership strengthens our district and enriches the experience of the students we serve.