Dr. Shawn K. Wightman, a visionary leader in public education, brings over twenty-five years of dedication and innovation to his role as Superintendent of Schools for the Roosevelt Union Free School District. Effective July 1, 2024, Dr. Wightman succeeds Dr. Deborah Wortham, following her retirement, and steps into his new role with a profound commitment to fostering academic excellence and community engagement.

 Dr. Wightman's career began as a classroom teacher, where his passion for education and leadership quickly propelled him through various roles, including instructional specialist, assistant principal, and principal. In October 2014, he was appointed superintendent of Marysville Public Schools in Michigan. His leadership at Marysville brought significant achievements in academic performance, financial stewardship, and program innovation. Under Dr. Wightman’s guidance, Marysville Public Schools achieved the highest SAT scores, four-year graduation rates, and average daily attendance rates in St. Clair County, MI, far exceeding county, state, and national averages. The district's high school earned national recognition as a top high school by U.S. News & World Report.

 Dr. Wightman's tenure at Marysville was marked by his dedication to enhancing educational opportunities for all students. He introduced a districtwide 1:1 technology initiative, deploying over 2,000 devices to students, and launched innovative STEAM programs at all levels, including Project Lead the Way and FIRST Robotics. His leadership of the #GoOpen campaign promoted the use of openly licensed educational resources, saving the district significant curriculum costs and earning national recognition from the U.S. Department of Education.

Dr. Wightman developed and implemented a comprehensive districtwide formative and summative assessment system and led efforts to support early literacy and personalized learning. His commitment to inclusive education is reflected in the development of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) program, a Reading Recovery program, and the expansion of Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment courses. He also introduced a strings music program, a “Begindergarten” preschool program, and an Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) program to ensure a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for eligible children.

 Dr. Wightman holds a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Curriculum & Instruction (K-12) and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) certificate in General Administration & Supervision (K-12) from Wayne State University. He earned a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Elementary Education from Saginaw Valley State University and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Elementary Group Minors from Western Michigan University, where he also played NCAA Division I men’s basketball. In 2016, he was awarded an Urban Superintendents Academy certificate from AASA/USC Rossier’s School of Education.

Throughout his career, Dr. Wightman has been recognized as a bold, visionary leader. His innovative and collaborative leadership style, combined with his unwavering commitment to student-centered education, made him the standout candidate during the nationwide search for the new superintendent of Roosevelt Union Free School District. Reflecting on his appointment, Dr. Wightman shared his excitement about joining the Roosevelt community, emphasizing his dedication to creating an environment where every child feels valued and empowered to achieve their best.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Dr. Wightman is actively involved in various community and professional organizations. He is a member of the St. Clair County Council of Superintendents, affiliated with Roseville’s Optimist Club, and a member of Marysville’s Rotary Club and Lions Club. He has been featured in numerous publications and is a sought-after presenter and public speaker. In his free time, Dr. Wightman enjoys spending quality time with his family, attending concerts, swimming in the Great Lakes, reading, and writing. His personal interests reflect his well-rounded character and dedication to lifelong learning.

Dr. Wightman’s journey in education is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence and his ability to inspire and lead. His innovative initiatives, strategic vision, and steadfast dedication have made a profound impact on the educational landscape, and he looks forward to bringing his expertise and passion to the Roosevelt Union Free School District.

Shawn K. Wightman, Ed.D.

SUPERINTENDENT

Roosevelt Union Free School District