August Educator of the Month

Its back to school and back to work for Franklin County teachers.  One Franklin County teacher received a welcome back surprise when she was notified that she had been nominated and selected for Educator of the Month recognition.  Mrs. Abby Ruwe, primary teacher at Brookville Elementary School, has been named as August’s Educator of the Month for the Franklin County Community School Corporation.  Mrs. Ruwe is beginning her 12th year as a teacher at Brookville Elementary School.  

Mrs. Ruwe received her degree in education from the University of Southern Indiana.  In addition, Mrs. Ruwe has earned a Master of Arts in School Counseling Services from Xavier University.  According to Mrs. Ruwe, she was the first teacher, retired principal Mr Mike Biltz, hired when he when became principal at Brookville Elementary School.  During most of her tenure at Brookville Elementary Mrs. Ruwe has taught first grade.  This year she has moved to kindergarten.  

When not working at school, Mrs. Ruwe helps out with the family business.  According to Mrs. Ruwe, “My very first job was not in the education field, but working in the family business which has prepared me to be a ‘people person’ to all generations along with a strong work ethic.   I started out carrying clerk sheets at Lutz Auction Service at 3 years old.  I was promoted to Lunch Counter manager in junior high.  I supposedly retired after my third child was born, but I am still working there on weekends and help with set-up on school breaks.”

When asked about the best part of her job, Mrs. Ruwe responded “seeing children excel”. “At my level excelling looks different than other grade levels.  Excelling may be learning to tie your shoe independently, while someone else is reading well above grade level, while another child just noticed a pattern on the calendar.  All of the ‘little’ notices in a days time add up to become ‘big’ bits of knowledge down the road.  You just can’t describe the happiness that these moments bring me…that’s what keeps me wanting to come back and give it my all the next day!”

The purpose of the “Educator of the Month” program is to recognize outstanding Franklin County educators who demonstrate excellence in the classroom, leadership in the school, dedication to the students, and involvement in the community.  Dr. Howell commented that she is thrilled that Mrs. Ruwe has been recognized for her efforts at Brookville Elementary.  “Mrs. Ruwe is a dedicated and devoted staff member that exemplifies excellence in teaching.”Nomination forms for “Educator of the Month” can be found on the school corporation website at www.fccsc.k12.in.us.