NPD117 Hosts Substitute Appreciation Reception

Susan Ruzich spent her birthday Tuesday like she spends most Tuesdays, Wednesdays and other weekdays: Substitute teaching at Sorrick School.

“I love (Sorrick School and NPD117) and I really love being around these children,” said Ruzich of Tinley Park. I wouldn’t have it any other way. It feels like family here.”

Mrs. Ruzich was among some 20 NPD117 substitute teachers who attended a Substitute Appreciation Reception after school at the district’s Dr. Tom P. Kostes Transportation Facility.

Susan, like many of the subs, has been a fixture in D117 schools. Some have worked at all five of the schools while others, like Ruzich, are more selective and prefer specific grades. Ruzich prefers the younger grades. She’s been subbing in D117 for 12 years.

“The younger kids can be spicy and feisty, but they are really good kids,” she said.
The subs come from all walks of life. Some are retired teachers, some are moms whose kids are grown and others are moms whose kids are in the buildings they teach. Still others, like Corrine Kopchik of Bridgeview, are retired from careers in the private sector.

Corrine, a retired accountant for a chemical manufacturing company, said she goes between subbing in NPD117 and D109 in Bridgeview. “I love the flexibility (subbing) provides,” she said. “I really enjoy teaching students in grades fifth and below. I also like having the summers off.”

Palos Hills' resident Susan Elmasry said she started working two years ago as a lunchroom and playground supervisor at Oak Ridge when her two kids were younger. Now she is working five days a week as a substitute teacher and her kids are in second- and sixth grade respectively.

“I just love the kids in my classes,” Elmasry said. “PreK and kindergarten are my favorite ages. They’re so sweet and they give you hugs.” Plus, I get to go home at the end of the day with my own kids.”

Surrounded by district and school administrators from all five of the schools, Supt. Jeannie Stachowiak thanked the teachers and told them how much they are appreciated. "I can't stress enough how important you are. We could not operate without you."

Dr. Stachowiak said her first job out of college was as a substitute teacher. "It is a very hard job and it can be thankless. Thank you for spending time with our students."

Oak Ridge Principal Stephanie Johnson told the group: "We are so happy to have you in our buildings. You truly care about our kids and it shows. We have the best substitute teachers around."

Glen Oaks Principal Farah Daoud said: "Thank you for the short- and long-term positions you take and for answering those early morning calls to come in."

The substitute appreciation reception ended with everyone singing a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday” to Mrs. Ruzich.

“Thank you everyone,” she said. “Now I’m going home to cook dinner.”