Position: Social Studies Teacher
School: Stratford High School
School District: Stratford Public Schools
City, State: Stratford, CT
Nicholas Ruck received multiple nominations from his colleagues, administrators, and former students.
With 20+ years in education, Mr. Ruck has left a profound impact on students, staff, and faculty. As a veteran from the United States Navy, he has brought his values, country's virtues, and experiences traveling the world from Morocco to Guantanamo into his social studies classroom.
For years, Mr. Ruck mentored students to engage in foreign policy debate. He traveled with them to Model UN (United Nations) at Yale University, where he provided the opportunity for students to engage in critical thinking with other students from various regions and countries.
His charismatic style of leadership within his department has not gone unnoticed, and he has always advocated for students, fostering a nurturing environment in his classroom. He will be sorely missed following his retirement, and there will no doubt be nostalgic glances towards his classroom door.
Please see these videos as additional submissions from colleagues, administrators, and former students: