Here at Ash Fork Schools we are fortunate to have many great employees and volunteers. I would like to dedicate this article to an employee who has been at the district longer than anyone else. The employee I’m talking about is Mrs. Di Rudnick.
I had the opportunity to interview Mrs. Rudnick and I think you’ll enjoy her responses.
1. What brought you to Ash Fork?
“Needed a change from crazy city life of Illinois. My parents moved here first. I liked it, and Jerry and I said, “Why not?””
2. How did you start working at Ash Fork Schools?
“I originally volunteered in our schools pre-school for years. Got hired years later with Coach (Sonny Martin) as part time elementary paraprofessional. Coach went on to finish college, and I got hired full time, still here.”
3. Can you describe how Ash Fork Schools was different from when you started?
“Everyone is held accountable, starting with Mr. Staples, staff, and students. Better love for learning.”
4. Are there any major events or stories that you remember over the years?
“There have been so many over the years, but here are a few that stand out! First, the student walkout to support coach. Second, is the ribbon cutting ceremony on Interstate 40 with the whole school. Next, Capturing Kids Hearts Program, we know it works! Lastly, Mrs Vicki speaking at graduation.
5. What advice would you give students to help them be successful?
“Take responsibility for yourself, work, be respectful to all including yourself. Allow yourself to learn. Remember, you’ll never find a better staff than Ash Fork Schools.”
6. What has kept you working at Ash Fork Schools for so many years?
“I love what I do! I’m confident, and amazing at my job. I know that I am impacting the lives of so many of our students. We do capture our kids’ hearts!”
7. What are some of the biggest challenges impacting public schools?
“In my opinion the bigger class sizes, standardized testing, and more difficult standards in lower grades are many of the problems we run into. We expects kids to do things that are not age appropriate and then grade them on it.
8. How long do you plan on staying with Ash Fork Schools?
“My love for what I do, wanting to impact the kids each year and give them the love and support they sometimes do not get at home, are all reasons I plan on staying for a while. Ash Fork Schools Keeps me, “Forever Young!”
