(Cleveland, OH) - Superintendent Dr. Robert Hunt, Chagrin Falls Schools, has been named the 2021 Ohio Superintendent of the Year by the Buckeye Association of School Administrators (BASA). His application will now be placed into the competition for the American Association of School Administrators National Superintendent of the Year. Dr. Hunt will be presented with the award at the October 21, 2020, Board of Education meeting.
“Dr. Hunt joins a very distinguished list of talented superintendents as he becomes this year’s Buckeye Association of School Administrators’ Ohio Superintendent of the Year,” said Deputy Executive Director David E. Axner, Ed.D., BASA. “His ability to always make decisions based on what is best for students, representing the Chagrin Falls Schools’ community with grace and drive, along with demonstrating a team approach to success contributed to this honor. Dr. Hunt was selected by a group of his superintendent peers and is maybe the most rewarding honor a superintendent can receive.”
On September 1, 2020, Dr. Hunt was nominated by Director of Curriculum Becky Quinn on behalf of the District’s central office directors for this recognition. His nomination indicated, “Dr. Hunt is an incredibly talented, forward-thinking, courageous, and inspirational leader. He is a true visionary who places the needs of all students first. His commitment to moving our District forward to be a leader across the state as evidenced via achievement scores is surpassed only by his drive to provide holistic learning opportunities designed to grow, develop, and empower all students. During his tenure as Superintendent, state test scores have dramatically improved, AP tests scores have improved while participation has increased, STEM programming has been developed, programming options for gifted and advanced learners have been developed across grades 2-12, unique options to provide real-world experiences and individualized supports for special education students has evolved, a 1:1 Chromebook Initiative including all K-12 students and 100% Google Level I Certification of all staff has occurred, and flexible learning options have been designed to meet the learning preferences and interests of our students.”
Dr. Hunt’s nomination cited that while his ability to lead the District staff and students and collaborate with parents/guardians and the community has always been very apparent over the years, the recent challenges related to continuing instruction for all students through the COVID-19 pandemic have truly exemplified his leadership ability. He was referenced as, “...a beacon of hope across the community, leading the district to be a stable and dependable force to support families and students.” His leadership during the pandemic has included not only the development of multiple learning environments to meet the needs of our K-12 students, but also strategies to support the social and emotional needs of district students and families. Dr. Martin Luther King once said, "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” In a time of crisis resulting from the pandemic, Dr. Hunt’s outstanding leadership ability has truly been showcased.
“The Chagrin Falls Board of Education is extremely proud of Dr. Hunt and his accomplishments and this recognition which places his leadership at the top in the State of Ohio,” said President Phil Rankin, Chagrin Falls Board of Education. “It is no coincidence that Dr. Hunt is being recognized this year amidst all of the challenges and hurdles of 2020. He has shown particularly strong leadership as he continues to deliver educational excellence to our students. Dr. Hunt and his staff have created a learning environment where students can learn at their own pace with technology interlaced into every student’s experience. His foresight, along with strong community support, enabled the students of Chagrin Falls to continue their education whether in-person or remotely at home.”
“As with most recognition achieved within our School District, this is a reflection of the collaborative efforts of our students, staff and community,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Hunt, Chagrin Falls Schools. “I am fortunate to work in this School District.”
Photo courtesy of Chagrin Falls Schools
(Copyright, iHeartMedia, 2020)
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