After working five years as a superintendent in Juneau, Alaska, followed by 12 years in Telluride, Mary Rubadeau has decided to work for the Montezuma-Cortez School District RE-1. Although that was not her original plan, she is very excited to be working with students again after her brief retirement. At first, Ms. Rubadeau was going to work as a consultant and help with the school improvement plan, but was asked to take over as superintendent as well. She is very excited to get back into working with education. “I love working with the staff and students,” Ms. Rubadeau said.

                Her main focus is going to be working with the teachers and the central office, supporting their ideas and the school improvement plan they’re suggesting. Ms. Rubadeau will not be making any dramatic changes to the way the schools are currently running; she is planning on making suggestions to the school board. One concern of hers is the students, “I look forward to meeting with more students and hearing what they have to say.” Ms. Rubadeau said. To try to get a better understanding of how the students feel, she will be meeting with the high school leadership team soon. One of her worries is how many students the RE-1 School District has lost, whether they decided to drop out or switched districts, and could continue to lose.

                In one of the previous districts Ms. Rubadeau worked in, they focused on keeping their students up to pace. In order to help struggling students, they had many programs available for the students to participate in. An entire class period could be used to focus on specific subjects; a technique she feels could benefit M-CHS.

                Ms. Rubadeau is passionate about her work; she looks forward to seeing some positive changes in the RE-1 School District. Student and staff opinions play an important role in her decisions and suggestions. She is hopeful for the future and believes M-CHS will make great strides.