Toms River Educational Support Professional Recognized for County and State Honors

Toms River educators honored one of their own Tuesday night, as Intermediate South paraprofessional Annette Ruch was recognized for receiving county and state recognitions for her dedication to education.

Ruch, who has worked as a paraprofessional for 18 years, was recently chosen as both the Ocean County and New Jersey Educational Support Professional of the year. Toms River's Board of Education honored her for the distinctions.

"That is a huge accomplishment," said Superintendent of Schools Frank Roselli, who has known Ruch during her entire tenure in Toms River. "Annette, this is your night."

Among other positions, Ruch has served on the Ocean County Council of Education Association Executive Committee, and as the Toms River Education Association Educational Support Professional liaison. 

"I can speak volumes over [Ruch] for the period of time that I've worked with her," Roselli said. "I think what's most astounding about this individual to the people who know her is her passion for the education of children."

Beyond helping students, Ruch and others in the ESP field helped out in the wake of Superstorm Sandy by securing donations for a family that was displaced by the storm. She also has been an active volunteer with the Special Olympics for the past 18 years, according to the OCCEA. 

"Like so much of what we do in public education, it is a labor of love," Ruch said in an OCCEA article announcing her honors. "But what a difference it makes in the lives of children!"

"Annette is like my rand hand," said Roselli as he read from a statement prepared by Laurie Weed, the sixth grade teacher with whom Ruch works.

Ruch also works in peer mediation, helped to develop learning strategies and spends summers assisting autistic children, according to the superintendent. 

"That lady never stops," Roselli said. "You're the epitome of a great employee, a great educator and most importantly a great individual."