Ruzycky, Sitterly receive March MVP Award

Congratulations to the March recipients of the Most Valuable Patriot (MVP) award, RISE teacher Chelsea Ruzycky and food service staff Renae Sitterly!

Chelsea Ruzycky, RISE teacher

For special education teacher Chelsea Ruzycky, the most rewarding parts of her day are found in the "firsts." Whether it is hearing a student say their very first word or watching them master a functional skill like opening their own snack, Ruzycky says being a part of those milestones is an honor.

"I feel so honored to play even the smallest part in those successes," Ruzycky said. "Sometimes I get to hear a first word before even the parents do. It’s so special to be a part of their lives in that way."

Now in her fourth year at BPES, Ruzycky teaches in the RISE (Reaching Independence through Support and Education) program at Broadalbin-Perth Elementary School. She is celebrated by her peers for her relentless positivity; in her MVP nomination, a colleague noted that Ruzycky "comes in each and every day with a big smile on her face and has a heart of gold." The nomination further praised her dedication, stating she "goes above and beyond, not only for her students but also her colleagues."

For Ruzycky, the feeling is mutual. She credits the team environment at Broadalbin-Perth for making her work so fulfilling.

"I love that every day is different and that I can make a difference, no matter how big or small," Ruzycky said. "I see my students make gains every single day. It is just so rewarding."

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Renae Sitterly, food service staff

When the Broadalbin-Perth food service department faced a period of transition this winter, Renae Sitterly didn’t just keep things running — she stepped up to lead.

While the elementary school lead cook was away on vacation, Sitterly took charge of the kitchen crew. Her MVP nomination highlights her bravery in taking on this responsibility during a time of change, noting that she "tackled every challenge with a smile and great enthusiasm." Her nominator added that Sitterly "stepped up to lead the elementary kitchen crew" and that the department has "been blessed with the best!"

Sitterly, who helps serve nearly 600 students daily during breakfast and lunch, says she is truly honored by the recognition.

"I enjoy coming to work each day and working with the team we have," Sitterly said. "It’s great seeing all the kids come in for breakfast and lunch!"

Sitterly has a personal connection to her work: She gets to see her daughter, a first-grader, throughout the day, which she calls an "added bonus" of working at Broadalbin-Perth.

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Each month, two district employees are recognized through Broadalbin-Perth's MVP program. Each winner receives a B-P Yeti mug. Nominations can come from any member of the school community and all nominations should be submitted online. The deadline to nominate a B-P employee for the next MVP award is Monday, March 30.