Meet Ruth Uribe, the Receptionist and Athletics Secretary at Cascade Middle School. She stepped up and was a hero for one of our newcomer families during the first days of school. Ruth was nominated for this recognition by Oliver Tatom, the Registered Nurse at Cascade.

On September 17, a Spanish-speaking newcomer missed her bus home on her first day of school. The only phone number on file for the parents went straight to voicemail. Knowing the student was scared, and because Ruth is bilingual, Ruth stayed with her until a parent arrived at close to 6 pm. This is on top of the incredible work Ruth puts in every day coordinating the school’s athletics programs, managing the school health room, and serving as the school’s front office receptionist. What she did for this student on this day is just one small example of her willingness to go above and beyond in service of students. We are very lucky to have her at Cascade.

Cascade Principal Gabe Pagano said Ruth has done an amazing job establishing herself as a standout staff member. “In her short time with us, she has become a trusted adult for our families, our staff, and our students. This fall, she guided over 200 families in registering their students for fall sports. Multiple coaches shared with me her willingness to drop everything to help them get the answers to their questions. She continues to build strong relationships with teachers and staff at Cascade and her willingness to serve visitors to our school is contagious. We love having Ruth at Cascade and are truly blessed to have her working with our community.”

Thank you, Ruth, for your calm and proactive response and the efforts you made to communicate and reconnect the student to her family, showing empathy and care. Your actions demonstrated that all students belong to the Cascade Middle School family and reminded your community that anyone can step up in the service of students. Bend-La Pine Schools is proud to name you our November Champion for Students!