An Interview with Mrs. Ruka
Written by Alyssa Padmanabhan
As I walk into the Administration Office around 3:30 pm on a busy Tuesday afternoon, teachers are talking about their days and others are making phone calls or filing paperwork. This is a regular day at East Ridge High School with the sounds of keys swinging and laughter floating over the air.
The clock strikes and the door opens to a room with crisp white walls and brown shades of furniture. Out walks our administrator, Mrs. Ruka, whose small figure and smiling face greet me. She stands with authority to greet the problems and questions of the day. She appears focused with swift precise movements while watching the clock to make sure she is punctual.
As we start the interview, an expression of excitement and pride shows on her face because of the school she proudly calls home: “What future plans and hope to you have for ERHS? Does this pertain to short or long term goals?” She replies with steadily rising enthusiasm, “I foresee physical and mental growth with diverse curriculum where students are able to gain the skills and knowledge they need to achieve their individual goals.”
I next asked, “What are a few aspects of the East Ridge community that you find exceptional?” Her face lit up as she stated, “Everyday I am impressed with the students! Their work ethic, their involvement in activities and how they set the bar so high in their achievements. Their high test scores, and all the work they put in: the theater kids, the speech kids, the sports kids, the music kids, all of them are always impressing me.”
Then I shifted my focus to Mrs. Ruka’s daily tasks and what takes up time in her busy schedule. Her many duties include dealing with disciplinary issues, involvement in Link Crew, working closely with the counseling staff, making parent phone calls, planning the master schedule, and lots and lots of paperwork.
A few goals she shared include her big dream to create an online store for ERHS and adding new expectations and updates to the student handbook.
Lastly, she wants the student body to know that, “I wish nothing more than your success with an approachable demeanor and to provide the resources that you need to accomplish your goals.”
