Two people whose dedication, compassion and empathy have made them trusted and respected members of the Rockland Central School District community will be honored next month by the Sullivan County School Boards Association.

Teaching Assistant Sharon Rutledge and Security Guard Jorge Sanchez will be among those recognized at the SCSBA Annual Awards Dinner and Meeting on Oct. 5.

Mrs. Sharon Rutledge

Mrs. Rutledge will be among those receiving an Outstanding Educator Award. She was recognized for her commitment, impact on the school community and above all being a dedicated advocate for students.

“Throughout her career, she has demonstrated an extraordinary passion for education and an unwavering belief that every student can succeed when given the right support, encouragement and opportunities,” Interim Superintendent Mrs. Lauren Nielsen wrote in her nomination letter.

“She consistently puts the needs of children first, ensuring that every student feels supported, valued and capable of achieving success.”

Mrs. Rutledge, who began working as a teacher’s aide in Roscoe in 2003, became a teaching assistant in 2006, working with students in seventh through 12th grades. She now works mainly with juniors in Regents English and U.S. History at Rockland Middle/High School. She is also the facilitator for American Sign Language through the Distance Learning classes. 

“(Mrs. Rutledge) invests countless hours working individually with students, developing personalized study guides, analyzing their academic needs and identifying the most effective ways to help them master challenging material,” Mrs. Nielsen wrote. “She patiently sits alongside students, guiding them step by step until they gain both understanding and confidence.

“Her work does not end when the school day is over,” Mrs. Nielsen continued. “Sharon regularly stays after school to provide additional instruction and support, often remaining long after other staff members have left, simply because she is committed to helping students reach their goals.”

That goal, for many, is graduating.

“Sharon never gives up on a student,” Mrs. Nielsen continued. ”She takes the time to truly know each individual, including those who may struggle academically, socially or emotionally. She learns about their interests, talents and aspirations, then thoughtfully incorporates those interests into her teaching to make learning meaningful and engaging.”

Mrs. Rutledge’s impact goes beyond students. 

“Colleagues know they can always count on her for thoughtful advice, encouragement or assistance during challenging times,” the nomination letter read. “She is the type of educator who quietly lifts others up, strengthening not only individual students but the entire school community.”

Mrs. Rutledge thanked her colleagues for their support.

“Since I started as a teaching assistant, I have been very lucky to work with fantastic teachers, counselors and administrators. There are countless things I have learned working with them,” she said. “They have taken the time to collaborate with me and teach me. Maybe even re-teach some things.”

And it is working together that leads to the best outcomes for students, she added. 

“I feel very honored and surprised about being recognized for the Outstanding Educator Award. We have so many hardworking, dedicated faculty here at Rockland,” she said. “Thank you to the administration and the Board of Education for recognizing my dedication to the students in receiving this distinction.”

Mr. Jorge Sanchez

Mr. Sanchez, affectionately known as “Mr. George” throughout Rockland Elementary, will be recognized as an Outstanding Friend to the District Award. 

He has served as a security guard in the Roscoe building for more than four years. Far more than a member of the security team, Mr. Sanchez has become a trusted mentor, a
reassuring presence, and an indispensable member of the school community, Mrs. Nielsen said in the nomination letter.

“From the moment students arrive each morning until they leave at the end of the day, Mr. George greets everyone with a warm smile and a welcoming spirit,” Mrs. Nielsen wrote. “He creates an atmosphere where children and adults alike feel safe, respected, and cared for.”

It is an atmosphere he says he enjoys.  “What I like most about my role here at Rockland Elementary is working with kids,” he said. “Coming from a big family with 10 grandkids, I find it easy.”
Safety is at the heart Mr. Sanchez’s responsibilities, which he carries out with professionalism and dedication. 

He is often seen walking and monitoring the campus while joking he is “counting his steps”  while ensuring the safety and security of everyone around him. 

His impact is also seen behind the scenes, as he is an integral part of RES’ emergency preparedness efforts, helping coordinate and carry out emergency drills. During school events, he also assists with parking, traffic flow and crowd management.

“What truly sets Mr. George apart, however, is the meaningful relationships he has built with our students,” Mrs. Nielsen wrote. “He is a positive role model whose kindness, consistency and genuine interest in children have earned their admiration.”

Several students have shared that “Mr. George” is the adult they most hope to earn a special lunch with through the school recognition programs. 

“To many of our children, he is their everyday hero—a trusted adult who makes them feel safe, seen and valued,” Mrs. Nielsen added.

Mr. Sanchez also supports the work of teachers and administrators, understanding the balance between quietly observing situations and stepping in when assistance is needed.

“His calm demeanor, sound judgment and respectful approach make him an invaluable partner in maintaining a positive learning environment,” the nomination letter read. “Staff members know they can depend on him to respond with professionalism, compassion and discretion.”

“Mr. George exemplifies what it means to serve a school community with integrity, compassion and excellence,” Mrs. Nielsen wrote.”His commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of every student and staff member, combined with the meaningful relationships he has built, has had a lasting and positive impact on Rockland Elementary.”

And Rockland Elementary has had an impact on him.

“I am moved and humbled by this award,” Mr. Sanchez said. ”It shows, to me, that the staff and students see me more than a security guard but also as a friend."
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The Sullivan County School Boards Association Annual Awards Dinner and Meeting will take place at  5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 5, at the Villa Roma in Callicoon. During the event, recipients of Sullivan County's 2026 Outstanding Educator Awards, Outstanding Friend to the District Awards and Outstanding District Employee Awards will be honored.