taught for 35 years from 1969-2004. I taught for one year at Corriher-Lipe Middle School and then taught for 34 years at West Rowan Middle School. I taught social studies, language arts, science, and taught academically gifted English for both 7th and 8th grade for 13 years before retiring in 2004.
On why he chose to run for the board of education: I chose to run for the Iredell-Statesville Board of Education because of my experience as a teacher. I truly believe that an educator brings many unique experiences to the table and has a first hand knowledge of both the classroom and the school system as a whole. Those experiences enable an individual to make many decisions that affect every employee at all levels. A person does not fully understand the difficult job of teaching students until he experiences the job first hand.
What he believes is the biggest accomplishment of the school district since becoming a member of the board of education: The biggest accomplishment of the school district is the continuation of high student achievement along with all the completion of new facilities and the renovation of most of the school buildings throughout the system. The system's ability to deal with the tremendous growth and provide a place for every child in the system is quite an accomplishment. However, the job is not yet complete as we plan for the future.
What he believes is the biggest challenge facing the school district: The biggest challenge facing the school system is the continuation of all of the successes while dealing with the financial crisis facing all school systems across the country. To do more with less is the challenge all systems face as we meet the expectations of the 21st Century.
What he has learned about the school district since becoming a board of education member: When I was elected to the Board of Education, I felt that I had a thorough knowledge of a school system. However, I have learned that dealing with the system as a whole is quite a challenge. From budgets, facilities, transportation, personnel, and meeting the needs of all students is a tremendous responsibility.
One word he uses to describe himself: Determined
Mr. Rogers' favorite book: To Kill A Mockingbird
Mr. Rogers' favorite television show: Sixty Minutes
His favorite place to eat in Iredell County: K&W Cafeteria
Something you may not know about Mr. Rogers: I spend time at Appalachian attending sporting events including football, basketball, and baseball.
Mr. Rogers' family: I was married to Linda Crawford Rogers who passed away in 2002. I spend most of my time with Gracie, my Golden Retriever. My sister is Kay Rogers who was a guidance counselor at Statesville High School and is now retired. The rest of my family are 12 nieces and nephews.
