Press
United Federal Credit Union announces its excellence in education winner for November, Mrs. Ruth Kareck
RENO, NV (December 19, 2013) — United Federal Credit Union (UFCU) announces that Mrs. Ruth Kareck, kindergarten teacher at Palmer Elementary, Sun Valley, Nev., is the November 2013 recipient of the Excellence in Education Award. Kareck was selected by UFCU, KRNV News 4 (Nev.), and the Reno Aces baseball team.
Each month, the Excellence in Education Award recognizes one teacher from the Washoe County School District (WCSD) and his or her individual achievements. The teacher can be nominated by students or parents. Winners receive recognition in the classroom or a special assembly by news anchor, Shelby Sheehan, and four tickets to a Reno Aces baseball game. UFCU, a primary sponsor, helps to provide deserved recognition to each recipient throughout the Reno/Sparks community.
Kareck was nominated for the award by the parent of one of her students, who said: “Mrs. Kareck currently teaches my twin boys but also taught my 7-year old. I have volunteered in her class a few times this year, and am absolutely amazed at how wonderful she is teaching these students. She already has her kindergarten class reading, and they have only been in school for a little over a month!”
The parent continued, “At age 84, Mrs. K has an amazing amount of energy and truly loves each and every one of her students.”
Kareck not only brings joy and years of life experience to the classroom but received her teaching certification only six years ago. Kareck was in her early 70’s when she returned to school to become a teacher. In 2008, she earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Nevada, Reno.
“For years, I’d volunteered in both my kids’ and grandkids’ classes,” explained Kareck. At the urging of many from within Washoe County School District, she decided to fulfill a lifetime dream and pursue a career in teaching. At age 78, Kareck became a certified teacher, starting out as a first-grade teacher at neighboring Marvin Moss Elementary School, in Sparks.
Earlier this month, Mrs. Kareck was honored for her work ethic and dedication to teaching. “She is an absolute delight and inspiration to us all,” added UFCU Business Development Manager Kellie George. “I’m thrilled for her and all of the students Mrs. K so dearly loves.”
UFCU has assisted WCSD teachers and their families since 1949. “I’ve worked with many of our teachers and know the admiration the students, staff, and parents have for Mrs. K,” added George. “She stands tall in everything she does.”
The credit union also realizes the impact quality educators can have throughout the lives of their students. “When they move on to first grade and in life, I want my kids to feel like the stars they are,” concluded Kareck.
With 22 offices nationwide, UFCU serves communities, teachers, and students throughout the U.S.
About UFCU
United Federal Credit Union has served its Members since 1949 by helping them to build a sound financial future. UFCU consists of more than 120,000 Member/owners worldwide, and manages assets in excess of $1.57 billion. Its corporate offices and main branch are located in St. Joseph, Mich., with additional branches in Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, North Carolina, Nevada, and Ohio. UFCU has been named the Michigan Credit Union League Outstanding Credit Union of the Year 2013. UFCU has also been named the National Federal Credit Union of the Year 2013 by the National Association of Federal Credit Unions.
About Excellence in Education
Excellence in Education is a program designed to acknowledge outstanding WCSD educators. The partners for Excellence in Education are KRNV News-4, UFCU, and the Reno Aces. Monthly winners are honored at either a school assembly or classroom visit hosted by News 4 anchor Shelby Sheehan. News coverage of the assembly and highlights of the educator’s contributions will air on News 4. Deserving educators can be nominated by sending an email to krnvexcellenceineducation@mynews4.com.