Robert Shaner to Start March 1 as Rochester Schools Superintendent

Robert Shaner, a former teacher, principal and police detective who is in charge of instruction and technology for Warren Consolidated Schools, will take over as leader of Rochester Community Schools on March 1.

Shaner was selected as the district's next superintendent two weeks ago; his employment contract was approved by Board of Education members Monday night, making his hiring official.

Shaner will be paid $182,800 annually. His contract covers March 1, 2013 to June 30, 2016; he will be evaluated in June of 2014 and board members will then determine whether to increase his salary or keep it the same.

Shaner will also receive a $6,200 tax-sheltered annuity, insurance benefits, 25 vacation days, 12 sick or personal days and millage reimbursement for traveling more than 100 miles roundtrip for school meetings or business.

A copy of his contract is attached to this story.

Board President Beth Talbert said the board considered the salaries of other superintendents in Oakland County when determining how much the district would pay Shaner. According to Talbert:

• The average salary of Oakland County superintendents with districts over 10,000 students is $202,000.
• The average salary of all superintendents in Oakland County is $190,000.

Shaner, a Shelby Township resident, has worked as the executive director of instruction and technology for the Warren Consolidated School District for the past two years. Previously, he served as principal of Sterling Heights High School. He has also worked as an assistant middle school principal and high school teacher.

He worked for three years as a juvenile detective for the Troy Police Department.

Board members interviewed nearly 45 of Shaner's colleagues, friends and family and conducted reference checks with more than 20 individuals.

Shaner will replace after one year with the district. Clarke's annual base salary was $172,000.