Classified/Support Staff Employee

Mary Ruiz
Position: Riverside Prep Elementary Office Manager
Years at Riverside Prep: Three
1. What do you do at Riverside Prep Elementary? Most of my job is office related, from enrollment and filing, to managing phone calls, attendance, and maintaining an inventory of supplies. However, I would like to add that this job has taught me so much more than just paperwork. It's about providing a welcoming environment for children, as well as parents. A simple act of listening and caring for the needs of a child goes a long way, as well as an act of translation that can ease the mind of a parent. After all, we are the first faces they see upon entering Riverside Prep Elementary.
2. What brought you to Riverside Prep? What brought me to Riverside Prep was the fact that in my former place of employment, I met parents who had students attending RP. I always heard them say that Riverside Prep is a great school to work for, as well as a great school district, so when an opportunity presented itself, I did not hesitate to apply for the position since working with kids is also something I have always enjoyed doing.
3. What do you like most about working at Riverside Prep? What I like most about working for Riverside Prep is the staff I work with, from admin to office staff, our great teachers, district office staff, etc. I feel that we are like a family, we help each other as much as we can, and we treat each other with respect.
4. What do you like most about working at an Elementary School? What I like most about working at an Elementary School is of course our students. It gives me great pleasure and satisfaction to be able to help our students with the different needs they have. When a student comes into my office with a need, I always do my best to help them and be able to fulfill their needs.
5. What does it mean to be the Classified/Support Staff Employee of the Month? I am pleasantly surprised and honored to be deemed Classified Employee of the Month, due to the simple fact that though the job has presented many exciting challenges, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. Working with such great staff and learning alongside them provided me with the ability of viewing that as a reward in itself. I am grateful for this privilege of recognition.