5 Award-Winning Educators In Rochester Community Schools

ROCHESTER, MI — Rochester Community Schools’ teachers and administrators have earned recognition as being the best in the county and the state. You can call them bragging rights.

These proud educators include the 2020 Michigan Superintendent of the Year, Superintendent Communicator of the Year, Michigan Teacher of the Year, Michigan Elementary Art Educator of the Year and overall Art Educator of the Year, Crain’s Detroit Notable Women in Education Leadership, and the Oakland County Elite 40 under 40.

“These awards are symbolic of the great work that goes on in the school district every day,” said Supt. Robert Shaner. “A large part of what sets us apart is our highly skilled team of caring professionals who build strong relationships and make that individual connection with students, parents, and the community. We work hard to provide an environment where our children feel a sense of love and belonging and that our school buildings remain a source of hope and inspiration.”

Here's a look at the district's stellar lineup of educators:

2020 Michigan Superintendent of the Year
Dr. Shaner earned the 2020 Michigan Superintendent of the Year award, which is presented by the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators. The honor recognizes Dr. Shaner for his strong leadership, creativity in successfully meeting the needs of students, communication skills, professionalism, community involvement, and his efforts to enrich the lives of children and the community as a whole.

“With a focus on bridging the diversity, equity, and inclusion gap, Dr. Shaner is committed to his philosophy: ‘All Means All.’ Under his leadership, the district created a strategic plan to ensure that all students and staff have a high degree of cultural awareness to make sure every person who comes into the district feels welcome,” said MASA Executive Director Chris Wigent in a statement.

“When I first met Dr. Shaner, he referred to K-12 education as ‘the business of hope and inspiration,’ said Board of Education President Kristin Bull. “His unique leadership approach to culture and strategy should be a model for other districts across the state.”

Michigan Superintendent Communicator of the Year

Dr. Shaner also received the Michigan Superintendent Communicator of the Year award presented by the Michigan Schools Public Relations Association. This award acknowledges his leadership in advancing education through responsible strategic communications.

“Being transparent, visible and proactive are Dr. Shaner’s communication hallmarks,” said Judy Evola, MSPRA awards chairperson. “Dr. Shaner is a strong advocate for public education, and he purposefully engages in dialogue with members of the business community and local, state, and national leaders. By strategically utilizing all available resources, to include face-to-face, phone, and email communication, along with print, broadcast, and social media, Dr. Shaner effectively connects with all community stakeholders.”

Teacher of the Year
Cara Lougheed, Stoney Creek English and history teacher, was selected as the 2019-20 Michigan Teacher of the Year by the Michigan Department of Education. Awarded in May, Cara has spent the current school year outside her own classroom advocating for public education and uplifting the profession. She represents 90,000 teachers and serves on the Michigan Teacher Leadership Advisory Council where she helps advance and influence education policies and initiatives for all students across the state.

Elementary Art Educator of the Year, and Art Educator of the Year

The Michigan Art Education Association announced the selection of Erica Davis-Hernandez, Brooklands Elementary School art teacher, as the Elementary Art Educator of the Year and then as the Art Educator of the Year. Erica has been teaching at Rochester Community Schools since 2004 at both the elementary and secondary levels. She values process and exploration over the final aesthetic and sees art as a way to travel the world with her students and bring them together.

Crain’s Detroit Notable Women in Education Leadership

The accolades continue. Robin Carter has been recognized by Crain’s Detroit as a Notable Women in Education Leadership. Robin joined Rochester Community Schools in 2016 and currently serves as the Executive Director for Instructional Equity and our 504 Compliance Coordinator.

“The Rochester Community School District is extremely fortunate to have Robin Carter leading us on our journey towards cultural proficiency. By taking a proactive approach to build awareness and trust, while educating our community, we can ensure all students, staff and community members are safe, valued, and respected,” said Debi Fragomeni, deputy superintendent for teaching and learning.

Oakland County Elite 40 under 40

David Uhrig has been named to the Oakland County Elite 40 Under 40 Class of 2019. David joins the ranks of prestigious community leaders and our own Board of Education member, Andrea Walker-Leidy who was recognized with the Class of 2016. David is in his fifth year as the Director of Bands at Rochester High School, where he leads the Falcon Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, Symphony Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Pep Band and Pit Orchestra for the musicals.

“The Board of Education is extremely proud of the entire RCS team who showcases the compelling why in education. This amazing group of educators, leaders, and support staff continue to make a profound impact on students’ lives every day,” said Board President Kristin Bull.