Nassau County Schools Superintendent Dr. John Ruis bid a bittersweet adieu to the education community as he prepares to graduate into retirement.
But not before receiving accolades, hugs and handshakes as he circulated among the standing room only crowd at Lewis “Red” Bean Nassau Technical Center at Florida State College at Jacksonville’s Yulee campus Nov. 3. His last day in office is Nov. 21.
Superintendent-elect Dr. Kathy Burns will be sworn into office during a reorganizational meeting Nov. 22. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. and will be held in the district boardroom, according to Superintendent Secretary Robin Jones.
Though rewarding, Ruis said serving as superintendent had also been at times a “tremendous burden.”
Ruis thanked administrators, faculty and staff for their support
“You did the work,” he said. “I just appreciate the work that you do. I’m proud to be associated with you.”
Along with the accolades, Ruis received a rocking chair and framed photos of his earlier days as principal at West Nassau High School, courtesy of the WNHS staff.
He also accepted a nameplate from district employees engraved with the moniker, “Mr. Technology.”
“Oh. That’s priceless,” he said, adding that he always referred to himself facetiously as such. “Technology is a many-splendored thing.”
The longtime educator began his career in 1976 as a social studies teacher at Hilliard Middle-Senior High School. He eventually rose to assistant principal there before principal of WNHS.
Ruis was elected to the superintendent post in November 1992, taking the helm in January 1993. He is the longest serving superintendent in Florida,
State Sen. Aaron Bean said via a congratulatory video message that aired during the reception.
Ruis replaced former superintendent Craig Marsh. He was superintendent for 16 years, beginning in 1976.
“I personally think that Dr. Ruis has done a superb job as superintendent,” Marsh said. “I wish him and (wife) Dottie well in retirement.”
During Ruis’ tenure, the school district has experienced the rising prominence of state testing, diversification in instruction and the addition of six schools, with one under construction. The school district also earned an overall “A” grade from the Florida Department of Education for 11 of the past 13 years.
A longtime teacher at HMSHS, Dottie Ruis looks forward to retirement in January. She was already counting down the days.
The couple plans to downsize their home, enjoy time with family and travel.
“I just learned to be supportive and be a better listener and to hide well,” she said of her time as the superintendent’s wife.
Others reflected on their association with Ruis, including School Board Member Gail Cook.
“It’s been a growing experience for both of us,” Cook said. “I have come to respect him, his faith, decision-making and his love for the students of Nassau County Schools and wanting to make the decisions that were best for them.”
Burns praised Ruis’ abilities and his “slow, steady, wise leadership.”
“He has led the district with distinction and integrity,” she said.
Elementary Education Director Kristi Simpkins was a student at HMSHS when Ruis was assistant principal. She was principal at Hilliard Elementary School for many years before transferring to the district office.
“He’s one of the most kind, caring, fair men I’ve ever worked with,” she said. “He treats everyone with respect. He’s a people-person. He always makes you feel positive. That goes a long way in an administrative role.”
Working closely on numerous projects, Facilities Director Kevin Burnette expressed his admiration.
“Dr. Ruis has just been a pleasure to work with for 24 of the 32 years I’ve been with the district,” he said.
After nearly 24 years of working for Ruis, Jones summed up his leadership style.
“He’s fair with each district’s school area,” she said. “He’s very thoughtful and conscientious. It’s been a joy – an absolute joy.”
The outgoing superintendent reflected on the reception, writing via email Monday.
“The reception was awesome,” Ruis noted. “I was reminded of how very blessed I have been to work with so many great people in our schools, communities and county for the betterment of our children. The presence of those who attended and the gracious comments made were very humbling. Thanks to everyone who had a part in the event.”