The NJSBA honored a select group of school staff members during its annual workshop in October 2025. The third annual “Unsung Superheroes in Education Awards” ceremony recognized those in pre-K-12 public education before a statewide audience in Atlantic City. They were nominated for working tirelessly behind the scenes — often without recognition — to ensure that New Jersey’s schools run smoothly. Their work helps provide a safe and nurturing environment for students while supporting staff and administration so they can do their jobs effectively.
The Association’s online weekly newsletter, School Board Notes, recognizes each recipient with a spotlight on their work. This week, we highlight Salem City School District Child Study Team Secretary Bobbie A. Shuman.
A longtime fixture in the district, Shuman has worked there for 41 years. She said her favorite part of the job is the connections she has built with parents, staff and the special education students her department serves.
“I truly value how closely our team collaborates to find the best solutions for each student. We are, without a doubt, a family ourselves,” she said.
As the Child Study Team secretary, Shuman said she relies on strong coordination and organizational skills when sending out meeting notices, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), evaluations and other documents in a timely manner, as each is time sensitive. IEPs are legally binding, written plans for public school students with disabilities that direct their educational journey.
The grandmother of an autistic child, Shuman said she is grateful for her own special needs family as well as those around her. The Salem City resident noted that working with case managers to schedule meetings, as well as assisting parents of students transferring into the district, is vital.
“When a student transfers in and has special needs, it’s my job to make sure I request that student’s IEP and records from the previous school so the case managers can review them for placement in our district,” she said. “I used to say, ‘I’m only the secretary,’ but over time I have learned I’m more than a secretary. I’m part of a very important group of people who care for students with disabilities.”
Shuman also serves as the district’s transportation coordinator. During football season, she oversees ticket sellers and takers at home games, and during basketball games, she sells tickets.
“I would like my lasting legacy to be that I helped create a supportive and organized environment where students and families feel heard,” Shuman said. “Being the grandparent of an autistic grandson, I understand the importance of being heard. I hope to be remembered as someone who was dependable, organized and helped the Child Study Team run smoothly so students can receive the services they deserve without delay.”
She said she appreciates her director nominating her for the NJSBA Unsung Superheroes in Education Award.
“I thanked her and told her how grateful I am,” Shuman said. “Her response was, ‘I just wrote the letter. You did all the work and made writing it easy.’ I love the recognition, and it meant so much to have my co-workers and family there to see me receive the award. But it also reflects the everyday work I do that is often unseen.”
The NJSBA congratulates Bobbie A. Shuman on this prestigious achievement.
Nominations for the 2026 Unsung Superheroes in Education Awards are open. To recognize a standout member of your district, complete a nomination form by Tuesday, June 30, 2026. All winners will be recognized at the NJSBA Workshop, scheduled for Oct. 19-22 at the Atlantic City Convention Center.
