Principal

Dr. Tawauna Stewart

I am humbled and honored to serve as the Principal of Rogers-Herr Middle School.  I am dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity within our school community.  With a passion for student success and a commitment to continuous improvement, I strive to create a learning environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.  

The middle school years are important and critical times for students. During these years, it is what happens here that will have a permanent effect on their growth and development.  My goal as Principal is not only to provide leadership to promote a secure and respectable classroom atmosphere in order for your child to receive the best possible academic instruction, but also to support your child academically, socially and emotionally.  I believe in open communication and a strong home to school connection.  My philosophy is that every student is equipped with an inherent value.

My approach to leadership is collaborative, transparent, and student-centered, focusing on building strong relationships with students, staff, parents, and the wider community.  I believe in the power of education to empower individuals to reach their full potential.  By setting high expectations, promoting a positive school climate, and fostering a culture of respect and diversity, I aim to continue the culture where students feel valued, supported, and inspired to succeed.

I received my Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from North Carolina A&T State University, Master in School Administration from North Carolina Central University and Doctorate in Educational Leadership at High Point University.  

I am excited to embark on this journey and look forward to working together as we continue to promote a school culture that promotes excellence, celebrates diversity, and prepares students for a successful future. 

Dr. Sharon Griffith, 7th Grade AP

WELCOME TO THE 2024-25 SCHOOL YEAR!

I am Dr. Sharon Griffith, your 7th grade assistant principal. I have enjoyed being an educator in Durham for 19 of my 27 years in education. Prior to making North Carolina home, I taught grades 4-8 in New York City. I fell in love with Durham and taught ELA for 10 years at Githens. Eight years of central office experience as a middle school literacy specialist and then as a K-12 literacy coordinator led me to pursue school leadership. I have also worked at Glenn Elementary and Northern High School as a MSA candidate from North Carolina Central University. I hold a Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum & Instruction from Fordham University in New York. I am also Nationally Board Certified in English Language Arts for Adolescents ages 11-15.

Middle school is my “JAM!” It is a special place and time to positively impact adolescents through relationships, academic experiences, and enriched activities that can help define the future. I enjoy being an eager listener to ideas, viewer of creativity and individuality, or a helper of decision-making. Therefore, I look forward to supporting all students academically and socially to make 7th grade an awesome experience. 

I can be reached at (919) 560-3970 ext. 70224 or sharon_griffith@dpsnc.net

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Mr. Duane Roberts, 8th Grade AP

I am truly excited to be serving as the 8th grade administrator at Rogers-Herr.  I believe that the eighth-grade year is crucial for our students’ high school success.  This is the year that we must set the right habits in stone for future success. I also understand that success looks different for each student.  A key priority of mine is making sure that each student believes that they can achieve their dream. 

This is my thirty first year in education.  I began my journey as a resource teacher in a junior high school. I transitioned out of the classroom and began my administrative career as an education coordinator at a behavioral health hospital.  After marriage, my family and I moved to Atlanta, GA and I became an Assistant Principal in a middle school. I have been in the Durham Public School system for the past ten years.  

I am married and have two outstanding sons. I enjoy playing sports video games in my free time and watching sports.