Freedom Shores Elementary School issued the following announcement on Oct. 21
For more than 57 years, Chuck Shaw has dedicated his life to education and public service. Mr. Shaw is a proud product of the School District of Palm Beach County. After graduating from Forest Hill High School and Florida Atlantic University, he began his teaching career at Berkshire Elementary.
He went on to hold several positions in the District, including principal, area superintendent, and director of governmental relations. An advocate for equitable education for all, Mr. Shaw leaves a lasting impression.
“Mr. Shaw’s legacy here at Okeeheelee for me is just the support of a phenomenal person, just making sure that the kids knew arts were supported,” said Sarah Shearon-Smith, Okeeheelee Community Middle School Band Director.
“I have known Chuck since 1976,” said Laura Kelly, who worked with Mr. Shaw during her career with the District. “He’s always in my book been top-notch as a teacher and a principal and with the District, working on the school board.”
In 2018, School Board members honored Mr. Shaw with a proclamation celebrating his esteemed career, including his Lifetime Achievement Award from the Kiwanis Club of Westside West Palm Beach and the Palm Beach County Board of Commissioners declaring November 17, 2018 as “Chuck Shaw Day.”
Among his countless other awards was induction into the Palm Beach County Sports Hall of Fame. He also served as chairman of the Florida Palm Investment Pool, and spent 22 years with the Town of Greenacres. He remains committed to connecting the community and the District.
“He’s always been accessible to us. He’s always been proactive on any of the matters that we have here in the village and he’s just been a pleasure to work with,” said Bev Smith, the mayor of Palm Springs.
Mr. Shaw also takes the time to recognize teachers and staff who go above and beyond, such as when he brought treats to school staff following a well-executed, coordinated response to an emergency. Community members whose children were educated by Mr. Shaw, appreciate his devotion to Palm Beach County residents.
“His heart is just enormous and he truly, truly generally cares about each and every one of the people in our community,” said Kathy Armetas, a proprietor of local restaurant, Pete’s Place.
One elementary school rite of passage near to Mr. Shaw’s heart is annual Safety Patrol trips to Washington, D.C.
He also was instrumental in developing The Education Network, the school district’s television station and premiere video production facility. He’s served on the School Board since 2012 as member, chairman, and vice-chairman.
Mr. Shaw still takes every opportunity to connect with children by reading to them, supporting extracurricular activities, and helping young minds grow.
The School District of Palm Beach County thanks Chuck Shaw for his selfless and tireless dedication to students and the community. We’ll miss you on the Board and we know we’ll see you around!
Original source can be found here.
Source: Freedom Shores Elementary School
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