Wendy Robinson, the former superintendent of Fort Wayne Community Schools (FWCS), passed away on Friday, August 18, 2023, at the age of 72. She was a lifelong educator, a trailblazer and a champion for public education. In this article, we will pay tribute to her life and legacy, and share some of the facts and stories that made her an influential leader in the FWCS district and beyond.
Contents
Family
Wendy Robinson’s family members are her husband, Charles Robinson Jr., who is a retired FWCS teacher and coach. Her son, Charles Robinson III, is a teacher at Northrop High School. Her daughter, Wendy Robinson Jr., is an attorney in Indianapolis. Her four grandchildren: Charles IV, Camille, Carter, and Chase.
| Name | Wendy Yvonne Robinson |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | July 15, 1951 |
| Date of death | August 18, 2023 |
| Cause of death | Not disclosed |
| Education | South Side High School (1969), DePauw University (1973), Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (master’s degree), Ball State University (doctorate degree) |
| Career | Third-grade teacher at Ward Elementary School (1973-1980), principal at Haley Elementary School (1980-1985), principal at Weisser Park Elementary School (1985-1994), principal at Memorial Park Middle School (1994-1997), assistant superintendent for instruction (1997-2003), superintendent of FWCS (2003-2020) |
| Family | Husband: Charles Robinson Jr., Children: Charles Robinson III and Wendy Robinson Jr. |
A career dedicated to FWCS
Robinson was born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She attended FWCS from kindergarten through 12th grade, graduating from South Side High School in 1969. She then studied education at DePauw University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in 1973.
She returned to Fort Wayne as a third-grade teacher at Ward Elementary School, beginning her 47-year career with FWCS. She later became a principal at several schools, including Weisser Park Elementary School, where she helped create a magnet program for visual and performing arts.
In 1997, she was appointed as an assistant superintendent for instruction, overseeing curriculum and instruction for the district. In 2003, she became the superintendent of FWCS, making history as the first woman, the first African-American, and the first FWCS graduate to hold the position.
As superintendent, she led the district through many challenges and changes, such as implementing a strategic plan, overseeing a $500 million construction project, managing budget cuts and navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. She also advocated for equity, diversity, and inclusion in education, and supported innovative programs such as dual language immersion, career academies, and early college.
She retired from FWCS in 2020, after serving as superintendent for 17 years. She was succeeded by Mark Daniel, who praised her as a mentor and a friend. Upon her retirement, she received several honors and awards, such as the Circle of Corydon Award from Governor Eric Holcomb and the naming of the Wendy Y. Robinson Family and Community Engagement Center.
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Awards & Honors
Some of Wendy Robinson’s awards and honors for her work were:
The Circle of Corydon Award from the state of Indiana, is given to those whose remarkable contributions have improved the state. The Sagamore of the Wabash Award from former Governor Mitch Daniels is the highest honor bestowed by the governor to distinguished Hoosiers. The National Superintendent of the Year finalist from AASA, The School Superintendents Association, which is one of the most prestigious awards in education leadership.
Robinson Influence and Contribution
She influenced other educators by being a role model, a mentor, and a coach. She inspired and empowered other educators to pursue their goals and passions, and to grow professionally and personally. She also challenged and supported other educators to improve their practice and performance, and to meet the needs of diverse learners.
Wendy Robinson contributed to the community by being a leader, a partner, and a citizen. She fostered strong relationships and collaborations with various community stakeholders, such as parents, businesses, nonprofits, and media. She also promoted civic engagement and social responsibility among FWCS students and staff. She also participated in various community initiatives and events, such as the MLK Unity Day Celebration, the Women’s March, and the Fort4Fitness.
Q/A
When and where was Wendy Robinson born?
Wendy Robinson was born on July 15th, 1951 in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
When and where did Wendy Robinson die?
Wendy Robinson died on August 18th, 2023 in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
What was Wendy Robinson’s cause of death?
Wendy Robinson’s cause of death has not been disclosed by her family or the district.
What was Wendy Robinson’s educational background?
Wendy Robinson graduated from South Side High School in 1969 and went on to study education at DePauw University.
What was Wendy Robinson’s career history?
Wendy Robinson returned to Fort Wayne as a third-grade teacher at Ward Elementary School in 1973 and began her career in FWCS.
What was Robinson’s vision for FWCS?
Robinson’s vision for FWCS was to provide excellence in education for all students. She wanted FWCS to be a district that prepared students for success in college, career and life. She also wanted FWCS to be a district that embraced diversity, innovation and collaboration.
How did Robinson impact FWCS students?
Robinson impacted FWCS students in many ways. She increased academic opportunities and choices for students, such as magnet programs, dual credit courses and online learning. She also improved student achievement and graduation rates, especially for minority and low-income students. She also cared deeply about students’ well-being and safety, and implemented programs and policies to address their social and emotional needs.
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