EAST LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan State University College of Education Alumni Association (COEAA) has bestowed onto Dr. Michael Shibler its prestigious Outstanding Alumni K-12 Administrator Award. Shibler is superintendent of Rockford Public Schools. Shibler will receive his award at the College of Education's Award Ceremony, which will be held April 15 at the Kellogg Center on the MSU campus.

Shibler is a two-time graduate of Michigan State University's College of Education. He received his master's degree in education administration from the college in 1971 and he received his Ph.D. in K-12 education administration in 1997. After graduation, Shibler continued his involvement with the MSU College of Education, serving on the COEAA board of directors for six years, spending two years as president.

Prior to his career in education administration, Shibler taught middle school for five years. He then served as assistant principal for Brighton Public Schools for three years, as assistant superintendent of curriculum for Brighton Public Schools for seven years and as superintendent of Clarenceville Schools for five years. He landed at Rockford Public Schools in 1989, and has remained there as the district's top school official.

Under Shibler's 18-year leadership, the Rockford School District has accomplished great things. Eleven of its 12 buildings so far have earned Blue Ribbon recognition, which is awarded to schools based on academic achievement; curriculum; quality teaching; and family and community partnerships. In 2005, the Rockford School District received the Rockford Area Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Award.

In addition, Shibler boasts an 18-year record of successful bond and millage issues. But perhaps most importantly, Shibler has a gift for inspiring his educators. He instills a sense of teamwork among his staff, which has resulted in a top-notch school district.

"Mike takes seriously his role as mentor to aspiring educational leaders and knows that the real legacy that he will leave behind is the influence that he has had on the students and the careers of those who will follow him," said Ty Wessell, superintendent of Northport Public Schools, who nominated Shibler for the award.

Shibler's contributions reach beyond the classroom into the community. He sits on the boards of directors for the Rockford Area Chamber of Commerce and the Rockford Economic Development Corp. He is a member of the Rockford Education Foundation Board of Trustees and the YMCA Board of Trustees. Additionally, Shibler writes a regular Superintendent's Column for the Rockford Squire and the Rockford Independent.

"In addition to his educational leadership, we were impressed with how much Dr. Shibler truly cares for all those to whom he's committed," said Dr. David Dieterle, president of the MSU COEAA board of directors. "The competition for this award was tough. But hands-down, Dr. Shibler's successful career in education administration - evidenced by the amazing accomplishments of his district - coupled with the praises of those who know and work with him, painted the picture of someone who is representative of the College of Education's dedication to educational excellence."

The College of Education Alumni Association board of directors annually presents three awards to deserving alumni: Outstanding K-12 Administrator, Outstanding K-12 Teacher and Distinguished Alumni.

For more information about the MSU COEAA, log on to www.educ.msu.edu/alumni

Contact: Kristen Parker, Alumni Coordinator, (517) 432-0445