The Ulster County School Boards Association (UCSBA) recently celebrated outstanding community members from across the county during its annual Distinguished Friend of Education Awards Dinner on November 20 at The Venue at the Best Western in Kingston. Each year, the event recognizes individuals who exemplify exceptional dedication to supporting public education through service, leadership, and advocacy.

This year, the Highland Central School District proudly honored Steven Laubach, a community leader whose decades of service have made a lasting impact on Highland’s students and families.

Laubach has been a cornerstone of the Highland community for more than 42 years through his leadership in the Highland Rotary Club, including six terms as president. His work has helped strengthen community safety, expand humanitarian support for those in need, and create meaningful learning opportunities for Highland students. In every endeavor, he has lived the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”

Laubach is deeply committed to supporting education and youth development in Highland. For nearly two decades, he has championed Junior Achievement programs in the district’s elementary school, helping to bring financial literacy and career-readiness lessons to nearly every student. His passion for promoting a love of reading is evident through his involvement in districtwide book projects benefiting both the middle and elementary schools.

At Highland High School, Laubach has played a key role in guiding the Interact Club, working closely with students as they engage in service projects that build leadership skills, civic responsibility, and community pride.

His support extends beyond the classroom as well. Laubach has contributed to annual school supply, coat, hat, and mitten drives; helped stock the Highland Middle School Kindness Closet and the Highland High School Teen Closet; and assisted with numerous initiatives aimed at meeting students’ basic needs with dignity and care.

Throughout his years of service, Laubach’s thoughtful approach, quiet leadership, and genuine concern for others have earned him the respect of fellow Rotarians, educators, and students alike.

The Highland Central School District is proud to recognize Steven Laubach as its 2024 Distinguished Friend of Education and extends sincere gratitude for his unwavering dedication to the district and the wider Highland community.