ROCHESTER — After serving 20 years on the Rochester School Committee, Sharon Hartley was recognized for her elected service and longtime career as a respected educator.

On Monday, May 12 a celebration of service recognizing Hartley as a member of the school committee was held, where Hartley was also honored as a former Rochester Memorial School teacher, a former principal and as a former member of the Joint School Committee.

Serving on the Rochester School Committee since 2006, Hartley decided not to run for reelection this year.

“It has been a privilege to support the efforts and accomplishments of our dedicated District leaders and the talented educators at Rochester Memorial School,” Hartley said.

Rochester Memorial School Principal Heidi Letendre said the district is “grateful to have had Mrs. Hartley leading our School Committee for several decades, and we wish her all the best as she embarks on new endeavors.”

Hartley first began working at Rochester Memorial School in 1973 when she was hired as a teacher. She also served as the School Committee’s representative on the Town of Rochester Building Committee for the 31,000-square-foot addition to the back of Rochester Memorial School, which was completed in 2011.

While moving away from the Rochester School Committee, Hartley will continue to serve the town by joining the newly formed Event Committee.

Town Administrator Cameron Durant congratulated Hartley on her 20 years on the School Committee.

"Your contribution to the town and its schools have certainly been very much appreciated,” he said. “And we wish you success in your new role on the Event Committee."

Superintendent Michael Nelson thanked Hartley on behalf of the school community for her “many years of dedication and service to the education of our young people.”

He added, “Her contributions have helped improve Rochester Memorial School greatly. She leaves a legacy of teaching and service that has benefited us all.”