Remembering Mike Shaw

We are saddened to announce the passing of another member of our Friendswood ISD family, former School Board member Michael “Mike” Shaw on the morning of Saturday, May 1. 

Shaw was a Friendswood High School 1979 graduate. He continued his education by attending Texas Tech University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering technology. Following graduation, Shaw began his career which ended with him working as an engineer in the aerospace field.

FISD played a significant role in the life of Shaw with him growing up and, eventually, raising his children in the District. Furthermore, Shaw’s wife Kimberly works for the District. Therefore, it came as no surprise when Shaw announced in 1998 that he would be running for Position 1 of the FISD School Board of Trustees.

His campaign found success and Shaw was officially elected. At the time, he said he believed that being raised in the community helped him to understand “its traditions and citizens’ expectations.”

“Mike Shaw embodied all there is in the Mustang Spirit,” FISD Superintendent Thad Roher said. “Mr. Shaw grew up in FISD and graduated from FHS as a very successful student and athlete.  As he served on the Board, he was the voice of Mustang Pride and a keeper of the many traditions that contribute to the culture of FISD. What an outstanding man.”

Perhaps it was Shaw’s understanding of Friendswood’s culture that encouraged him to serve as a youth basketball coach, be an active participant in the Clear Creek Elementary Mentoring Program, and serve as the Board liaison on the Friendswood ISD Education Foundation from 2002 to 2005. Shaw remained on the Board until 2016, having served for 18 years.

FISD recognized the importance of Shaw’s work within the District and the community, and it was clear that others recognized his work as well. During his career, Shaw received the following honors: Engineer of the Year: Bendix Field Engineering Corporation (1991), Astronaut’s Personnel Achievement Award (1992), JSC Group Achievement Award Resupply Stowage Platform Development Team (2002), and Space Flight Awareness Award (2010).

Though we mourn the passing of the amazing man who was Mike Shaw, we celebrate his life and his legacy. A service will be held on Saturday, May 8 at Harbor Church. Visitation will begin at 9:30 am and the funeral service will begin at 10:30 am.

In lieu of flowers, the Shaw family has asked that donations be made to the Friendswood ISD Education Foundation in Mike Shaw’s honor.