Superintendent
Dr. C. Michael Robinson Jr., Ed.D.
Superintendent, Akron Public Schools
September 2024
Dr. Michael Robinson signed a five-year contract with Akron Public Schools in the summer of 2023. He brings to Akron a wealth of educational experience.
As I am now in my second year as superintendent, I reflect on my first year and look ahead to our future. I am reminded of James Baldwin's powerful words: "Not everything that is faced can be changed. But nothing can be changed until it is faced."
This past year brought challenges, but our commitment to our 20,000 students remains unwavering. In today's fast-paced, often harsh world, our priorities must be clear: kindness, supporting our scholars and the well-being of our families.
I greatly appreciate our outstanding teachers, staff and community members. Your dedication is transforming lives and shaping a brighter future for Akron.
As we move forward, I call on all of us to face change with courage and boldness. Together, we can achieve what may seem impossible. Let's unite to ensure all APS scholars are college-, career- and life-ready by providing innovative educational experiences. We can do this -- together, as one.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership in education.
Read Dr. Robinson's Letter to the Community, dated August 1, 2023 >>.
Superintendent's First-Year Evaluation
>>>>> Superintendent Reflects on First Year
More Superintendent News Posts
Solving the Puzzle
The Akron Public Schools Board of Education has completed its evaluation of Superintendent Dr. Michael Robinson's performance during his first year in office. This comprehensive, annual assessment tracks progress, performance and goal-setting, supporting the district's commitment to continuous improvement.
As the new 2024-25 school year is approaching, Dr. Robinson is pleased to present his "Solving the Puzzle" publication concerning how each piece of the puzzle shapes our students' educational journey. This publication highlights five Priority Areas for Listening and Learning: Accelerating Achievement of the Goals and Guardrails." These areas will help to inform Dr. Robinson's thoughts, ideas and decisions to achieve the Goals and Guardrails in support of our Akron Public Schools students.
Please click on the image to the right to learn more.
Akron Public Schools Divisions
DIVISION OF ACADEMICS
Dr. Tamea R. Caver is an educational leader who has spent her career serving children in urban communities. She has been a change agent in both charter and public school districts. Dr. Caver has worked in Warrensville Heights; Cleveland; and Dallas, Texas; and for Breakthrough Charter Schools. Caver is currently the chief academic officer/assistant superintendent. Dr. Caver holds a Bachelor of Arts in Management from Hiram College, a Master of Education from John Carroll University. a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas at Dallas, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Urban Education from Cleveland State University. Her mission is to provide an educational environment where students can excel and everyone is held to high standards. She is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and Jack and Jill of America Inc. Lastly, she is the proud wife of Dr. Floun’say R. Caver and mother of Taj and Mya Caver.
DIVISION OF SCHOOLS, ACCOUNTABILITY AND ASSESSMENT
Director of School Improvement Keith Liechty-Clifford supports our district's Blueprint for Excellence by guiding the improvement process across all school levels, focusing on closing achievement gaps. He also oversees federal programs, managing grant funds (Title I, II, III, IV, Title 1D - JDC and Auxiliary) to ensure appropriate allocations that support academic growth, parental involvement, professional development and supplemental supplies.
Mary Outley, executive director for school leadership, is responsible for oversight, professional growth and evaluation of effective instructional practices for select schools. Her core responsibility is to provide an intentional focus on leadership development and support. She ensures schools have excellent leaders, educators and staff prepared to meet the diverse needs of scholars. Mary Outley works with building-level administrative teams and staff to implement the district’s Blueprint for Excellence, helping scholars develop soft skills needed for enrollment, enlistment, employment or entrepreneurship upon graduation. Mary is a proud Akron Public Schools graduate of John R. Buchtel High School. She graduated from The University of Akron’s College of Education with a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master of Science in Education. She holds a professional license as an elementary teacher, principal and superintendent.
Michelle Marquess-Kearns is the executive director of school leadership and oversees the professional growth and evaluation of effective instructional practices for select schools. Her primary responsibility is to deliver a strategic approach to leadership development and support, ensuring that schools have outstanding leaders, educators and staff equipped to meet the unique needs of their scholars. By enhancing the scholar experience, refining teaching and learning, and fostering business engagement, she plays a crucial role in advancing the district’s Blueprint for Excellence. An alumnae of APS North High School, Michelle earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education, a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Media-Communications and a Master of Arts in Education from The University of Akron’s College of Education. She holds professional licenses as both a secondary teacher and a principal.
John Dawson is our Akron Public Schools administrative professional for school leadership. He graduated from Firestone High School and earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from The University of Akron. John’s primary responsibility is providing leadership skill development and support to building-level administrative teams as part of the district’s Blueprint for Excellence.
DIVISION OF STUDENT SERVICES AND SUPPORTS
Yvonne Culver is a professional educator whose career journey includes school counseling, teaching, program development, social work and mental health therapy—all great experiences for her current position as director of school counseling and student wellness. Her department facilitates training and developing school counselors, creating and maintaining college and career access experiences for students, including student voice and leadership opportunities, and the oversight of mental health services provided in the schools. Yvonne earned her BA in Psychology, English and Secondary Education from Anderson University, her MA in Counseling and Human Development from Walsh University and her certification in instructional leadership from Cleveland State University. Her happy place is by water with her husband, two adult daughters and dog, Norah.
Wanda Lash, Ph.D., is a dynamic educator with more than 20 years invested in public education. With experiences at the classroom, building and district level, she is committed to enabling a scholar-centered culture and providing leadership that fosters collaboration, innovation and success for all. Dr. Lash began her teaching and administrative career in the Canton City School District. She taught algebra and geometry to high school students before transitioning to building-level administration. Dr. Lash was a middle and high school assistant principal and a middle school principal before transitioning to district-level administration, where she has served for more than 10 years. Prior to joining Akron Public Schools as the director of student and family services, Dr. Lash was the director of student support services in Canton Schools. Wanda Lash earned her Bachelor of Science from Illinois State University, master’s degrees from both Marygrove College and The University of Akron, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Urban Education from Cleveland State University. A Chicago native, Dr. Lash resides in Akron with her husband and their four children. She is also a proud member of the Stark County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and enjoys live music, reading and vacationing.
Carla Chapman is the Akron Public schools Chief Diversity Officer (CDO). The role of the CDO is to work across the district to ensure the equity lens is applied in all policies, practices, processes, decisions and relationships. Additionally, the CDO reviews data and outcomes to understand any disparities and to work toward solutions that improve the district’s ability to achieve academic success; build community trust; and sustain our partnerships with staff, families and Akron residents.
DIVISION OF COMMUNICATIONS
Mark Williamson is director of marketing communications at APS. He provides leadership in external and internal communications, two-way community engagement, crisis communications and public messaging. The communications team orchestrates the flow of information between the school district and the public. This strategic role involves shaping the narrative and maintaining the integrity of the organization's brand.
Joanne Isaac is the assistant director of marketing communications. A life-long educator with a passion for urban education, Joanne brings a unique perspective to the role. Committed to sharing positive stories about the district's achievements and successes, Ms. Isaac works closely with the district and building teams to develop content that highlights the inspiring work of students, teachers and staff. With a strong understanding of effective communication strategies, Ms. Isaac's role includes promoting the district's mission and cultivating strong community connections to the district. Ms. Isaac plays a lead role in strategic planning for the district, ensuring alignment with the district mission. She guides the development of a comprehensive plan, working closely with district departments to align their goals and objectives to ensure organizational cohesion.
DIVISION OF TALENT & ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RECRUITMENT
Larry Johnson Jr. is an educational leader who has spent his academic and professional career in Akron Public Schools. With a broad range of experiences as a teacher, principal, founding instructional leader, and district-level administrator, Larry is able to effectively provide innovative leadership and develop unique solutions that benefit ALL students and staff. He is currently the executive director of talent & organizational development where he facilitates and drives professional talent development, recruitment, leadership training and team effectiveness. After graduating from Buchtel High School, Larry earned Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Defiance College and Master of Science in Education from the University of Akron. He is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Education and holds both principal and superintendent licenses.
DIVISION OF OPERATIONS
Debra Foulk a graduate of Akron Public Schools Firestone High School, followed by attending Kent State University where she earned both a Bachelor Degree of Science and Master’s Degree of Science with concentration in the field of dietetics/nutrition. She worked for a total of 13 years as the coordinator for dietary services at St. Thomas Hospital in Akron prior to joining Akron Public Schools. Originally appointed as a child nutrition specialist with the district in 1987, she became the child nutrition services coordinator, followed by working as the coordinator of support services. She is currently the executive director of business affairs for the district which allows interaction with students, families, staff and community members addressing a number of support services. Debra holds the State of Ohio Business Manager’s License for schools, is a State of Ohio Licensed Dietitian, is a credentialed School Nutrition Specialist and is Certified in Family and Consumer Science along with active ServSafe certification
Yamini K. Adkins has been in public service her entire career. Yamini brings a wealth of knowledge related to government systems and operations, labor law, human resources management, and employment relations as she serves in her current role as the executive director of the Human Capital Division at Akron Public Schools (APS). Yamini advances the importance of clarity, consistency and efficiency as key practices to good employment. She has centralized and streamlined various functions in human capital and has created effective work systems between departments regarding employment issues. She recently led the staff Restructuring and Reorganization Plan at APS. She regularly provides advice and guidance on a variety of employment matters including staffing and organization, work conflict issues, EEO matters, corrective performance matters, employment leave issues, and various other employment matters. Yamini is an licensed Attorney in the State of Ohio and has previously served as the Director of Human Resources for the City of Akron and as Federal Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Services.
Mike Defibaugh joined Akron Public Schools in January 2024 as the director of labor relations. The Department of Labor Relations oversees collective bargaining agreement administration, employee discipline, union grievances, training and policy review. Defibaugh is a graduate of Kent State University and the University of Dayton School of Law. He is admitted to practice law in the State of Ohio, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals and the U.S. Supreme Court.
Zach Hanshaw, executive director of IT, is responsible for overseeing the IT department, which includes end-user technology support, audio/visual, programming/data services, EMIS reporting, and networking/telecommunications. As a leader, Zach is known for his ability to inspire and motivate his team, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. His leadership style is rooted in transparency, accountability and a commitment to achieving organizational goals while supporting the personal and professional growth of his team members. With a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Master of Science in IT Management, Zach has extensive experience across various sectors, including education, law firms and hospitals, which has equipped him with a versatile skill set and a comprehensive understanding of IT systems and management. He also holds certifications as a Six Sigma Black Belt and a Certified Associate in Project Management, demonstrating his commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. Zach resides in Homeworth and is a proud parent of two amazing kids. In his free time, Zach seeks adventure and enjoys exploring the outdoors.
Alan Jones is the director of safety and security. A graduate of John R Buchtel High School and The University of Akron, Alan and his staff of safety team members, Akron police officers and Summit County sheriff's deputies are responsible for the safety of our scholars and APS employees as well as the security of our buildings. He is a hands-on style leader having just recently retired from the Akron Police Department after 33 years of service. He is committed to ensuring that the safety team keeps a safe working and learning environment for our scholars and employees.
Steven Keenan is the director of facilities services and is responsible for ensuring that all APS facilities and properties are well-maintained, cleaned and cared for. He has more than 20 years of combined experience in facilities maintenance, grounds maintenance and mechanical repair (automotive, on/off road equipment, etc.). Steven received his Master of Public Administration with a certificate in Nonprofit Management as well as his Bachelor of Technical and Applied Studies from Kent State University. Steven’s interests include advocating for and supporting public lands, outdoor education, and volunteering as well as enjoying outdoor recreational activities, traveling, and exploring new worlds through science fiction and fantasy novels.
If you need to request public records, please email publicrecordsrequest@apslearns.org.
For student records requests (including transcripts), visit akronschools.com/