Ora Robbins

Ora Shoemaker Robbins (1913-1995) was a career educator and the only woman elected superintendent of schools in Scott County, a post she held from 1952 to 1956.

See Also: Scott County School Superintendents
Preceded By: A.V. Ellis • Succeeded By: Malvin C. Sexton

Biography

Born Oct. 4, 1913, Ora Shoemaker was the daughter of George Alvin Shoemaker (1887-1961) and Moda A. Ellis (1887-1961). She was one of eight children.

Shoemaker married Jasper Robbins (1906-1974) and they had two children: Jasper Robbins Jr., and JoAnn Robbins Culver (1935-2014). Her son-in-law, Eddie Culver (1929-2008), also served as Scott County Superintendent of Schools.

Professional Life

Robbins was a career educator. She began her teaching career in 1932, and taught for over 50 years. Her posts included schools in the Scott County School System, the Oneida Special School District, and in Lorain, Oh.

She was also a charter member of Mountain View Missionary Baptist Church.

Scott County School Superintendent

Robbins was elected superintendent of schools in 1952, becoming the first woman to ever hold that post, and the only woman ever to be elected to the position in Scott County. She replaced A.V. Ellis and served until 1956, when she was succeeded by Malvin Sexton.

Death

Robbins died on Aug. 27, 1995. A funeral service was conducted Aug. 29, 1995 at Jones & Son Funeral Home in Oneida, and she was buried at Black Creek Crossroads Cemetery in Robbins.

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