Maplewood Richmond Heights School District Assistant Superintendent Roxanna Mechem will retire at the end of the 2021-2022 school year.
Ms. Mechem joined MRH in the fall of 2011. Before that, she served as a high school social studies teacher, curriculum coordinator, assessment director, grant facilitator and in several other administrative roles.
“My years of service at MRH are among the most rewarding professional experiences of my life,” said Ms. Mechem. “MRH is a special place that I have been very proud to call home. Our unique approach to education, our supportive community, our outstanding students and a world-class staff make this a one of a kind educational environment. Our mission statement is not just words on the wall. MRH students are stewards, leaders, scholars and citizens. They are passionate and articulate. I will miss the day-to-day interaction with the amazing individuals who call MRH home. While I am looking forward to travel and time to work on projects long neglected, I will always be a Blue Devil. I can’t thank you enough for welcoming me into the MRH family and giving me your trust and support. I can’t wait to see what great things await MRH in the future.”
Longtime Student Services Director Vince Estrada praised Ms. Mechem’s leadership during the early stages of the pandemic.
“Roxanna carried the torch following the departure of our previous superintendent. It was no small task to serve as interim superintendent during such a challenging period; the region was in the grips of the pandemic and anxiety among families and staff was pretty high. But Roxanna stepped in with her famously calm, engaging demeanor and her optimistic attitude. She was instrumental in creating our health and safety protocols -- and maintaining consistent adherence to them. She helped leverage MRH as a model district in responding to COVID. When she transitioned to serve as our interim superintendent, she did not miss a beat. In addition to continuing to serve as our assistant superintendent, she quickly pivoted to providing steady leadership as the interim superintendent. I would be hard pressed to think of a colleague who worked harder and more tirelessly in the midst of a health and education crisis.”
Superintendent Dr. Bonita Jamison congratulated Ms. Mechem on a stellar career.
“In her time here, Roxanna cultivated a vibrant and progressive environment focused on the MRH Cornerstones. She has a deep-seated love of teachers and teaching. Her legacy will be a shared sense of purpose across our school community. Please join me in wishing her all the best in a well-deserved retirement.”
