Rockwood Special Education Director Earns SSD Distinguished Leadership Award

Rockwood School District Director of Special Education Dr. Carmen Harris is one of this year's three recipients of the Distinguished Leadership Award from the Special School District (SSD) of St. Louis County.

The award is divided into three categories — SSD administrators within SSD buildings, SSD administrators in partner districts and non-SSD administrators in partner districts — and celebrates leaders whose unwavering care, courage and compassion provide SSD staff with guidance and support. 

Distinguished Leadership Award recipients' outstanding dedication has significantly impacted SSD students, staff, families and the wider community.

"Dr. Carmen Harris is a transformational leader whose unwavering commitment to equity, collaboration and student success inspires everyone around her. Her integrity, compassion, and tireless dedication make her a role model who empowers others to create inclusive and thriving educational communities," Shauna Carney, special education administrator at Blevins, Eureka and Geggie elementary schools said in an SSD release. "Her dedication to fostering collaboration across departments, schools and community organizations reflects her commitment to creating inclusive and equitable environments that support every student’s potential. This collaborative approach bridges the gap between special and general education, creating unified systems that support inclusive practices. Serving under her leadership has been inspiring and deeply impactful."

The Distinguished Leadership Award is part of SSD's annual Salutes awards program. Crestview Middle special education teacher Sandra Smallenberger was also recognized by the SSD in February, as one of 10 Key to the Classroom award recipients.