Home Never Leaves You...
Hannah Stoughten
04-29-21
At Apollo-Ridge, there are a plethora of teachers that graduated from A-R and returned to teach. On a mission to interview teachers on why they came back to AR, I discovered one common theme; Apollo-Ridge leaves such an impact on its students that it never truly leaves anyone who roams its halls. As a lifelong student, I can say that this testament will most likely hold true for myself and my classmates. The love, community, and family created within these walls is unlike any other; it truly is a great family.
When asked why they returned, many teachers shared one thought; the atmosphere and comfort of Apollo-Ridge was too great to ignore when deciding a job. Chad Danka, a 5th grade social studies teacher, said that he was “comfortable and knowledgeable” with the school, and that an ex-principal influenced his decision to come back. Danka also testified that the school atmosphere has changed significantly since he was in school. “The school is much more inclusive, as well as the students just being nicer in general. There are less cliques and everyone is just more accepting.” He offered, noting that this is most definitely a positive change.
A variety of elementary school teachers, including Afton Deceder, Nikki Stedrak, Katrina Bloom, Janie Fryer, and Ellen Reilly included the aspect of loving their hometown in their response. As Fryer said, the district is a wonderful place to raise your children in, and that the school truly is like a little family. Reilly stated that the school has always had an extremely inviting atmosphere – a thought still shared by many students – and that the priorities of the community are much more flexible now than they were before, a positive change. The interviews truly became an homage to Apollo-Ridge, and each elementary school teacher interviewed stated that the community and school left enough of an impact to enjoy returning to their hometown and working at their home.
Some teachers, such as Amy Guido, didn’t return to Apollo-Ridge until later. “I didn't become a teacher until I was 34. I had to student teach, so luckily I was able to Student Teach at Apollo-Ridge.” As for the changes, Guido stated that not much had changed.. except for the classrooms now having doors. Other high school teachers contributed their time to these interviews as well, including Danielle White and Jeffrey Zelonka. Zelonka offered even more positive thoughts on Apollo-Ridge, stating, “My Apollo-Ridge experience as a student was always so positive. I had some very influential teachers/departments that really helped me grow and understand how things should be.” He continued to state how he has two daughters, and they live in the district. He stated that the people at Apollo-Ridge have always been extremely good people, something important in both a workplace and a school environment. White offered a similar statement, stating how helpful and loving the environment is. “I came back because I loved it here. My very first day subbing I was greeted by my former teachers, hugged by some, and I did not even make it into the building before someone spoke to me and offered to help,” she offered.
Changes in Apollo-Ridge physically are hard to come by. The extremely 70s-esque appearance was noted by White and a variety of others. “The 70s bright orange and olive green color scheme in the high school remains in the same chairs I sat in as a student,” White offered, noting the ongoing joke amongst seniors of 2021 that the school will always look the same. Socially, however, the school has undergone a variety of changes. As Danka stated, the school is much nicer and accepting than before, but also significantly smaller. Fryer, Danka, and Zelonka all noted the “skeleton crew” that A-R now has, with downsizing in each department. Particularly noted by Danka and Fryer, the elementary school has downsized from 6 teachers to 4 in each hall, as the class sizes are continuing to decrease.
Jerry Moore, a middle school social studies teacher, offered a statement that differed from others. He stated that he felt the student attitude had not changed significantly since he was in school; however, middle school children may always remain the same, as middle school is a troubling time for teachers, students, and parents alike. He stated that he felt very comfortable with raising his daughter here, and the only changes he has seen is once again the reduction in student enrollment. Apollo-Ridge is very much still in the 1970s, as many teachers have noted.
Despite the troubles faced with the class of 2021 during this pandemic, many teachers offered a plethora of compliments to us, stating that our perseverance and continued kindness will forever stand out. “The class of 2021 will always be one of my favorite groups to come through. You guys were always just so nice to each other and involved.” Danka offered, and the class of 2021 has come to love this school just like these alumni. The series of interviews started as just a newspaper article, and turned into a tribute to Apollo-Ridge. The kind, inviting, and loving atmosphere created by both the students and teachers is impossible to miss, and while many can’t wait to graduate, there will always be a part of our hearts left within the walls that raised us. As someone once said, once a Viking, always a Viking.
When asked why they returned, many teachers shared one thought; the atmosphere and comfort of Apollo-Ridge was too great to ignore when deciding a job. Chad Danka, a 5th grade social studies teacher, said that he was “comfortable and knowledgeable” with the school, and that an ex-principal influenced his decision to come back. Danka also testified that the school atmosphere has changed significantly since he was in school. “The school is much more inclusive, as well as the students just being nicer in general. There are less cliques and everyone is just more accepting.” He offered, noting that this is most definitely a positive change.
A variety of elementary school teachers, including Afton Deceder, Nikki Stedrak, Katrina Bloom, Janie Fryer, and Ellen Reilly included the aspect of loving their hometown in their response. As Fryer said, the district is a wonderful place to raise your children in, and that the school truly is like a little family. Reilly stated that the school has always had an extremely inviting atmosphere – a thought still shared by many students – and that the priorities of the community are much more flexible now than they were before, a positive change. The interviews truly became an homage to Apollo-Ridge, and each elementary school teacher interviewed stated that the community and school left enough of an impact to enjoy returning to their hometown and working at their home.
Some teachers, such as Amy Guido, didn’t return to Apollo-Ridge until later. “I didn't become a teacher until I was 34. I had to student teach, so luckily I was able to Student Teach at Apollo-Ridge.” As for the changes, Guido stated that not much had changed.. except for the classrooms now having doors. Other high school teachers contributed their time to these interviews as well, including Danielle White and Jeffrey Zelonka. Zelonka offered even more positive thoughts on Apollo-Ridge, stating, “My Apollo-Ridge experience as a student was always so positive. I had some very influential teachers/departments that really helped me grow and understand how things should be.” He continued to state how he has two daughters, and they live in the district. He stated that the people at Apollo-Ridge have always been extremely good people, something important in both a workplace and a school environment. White offered a similar statement, stating how helpful and loving the environment is. “I came back because I loved it here. My very first day subbing I was greeted by my former teachers, hugged by some, and I did not even make it into the building before someone spoke to me and offered to help,” she offered.
Changes in Apollo-Ridge physically are hard to come by. The extremely 70s-esque appearance was noted by White and a variety of others. “The 70s bright orange and olive green color scheme in the high school remains in the same chairs I sat in as a student,” White offered, noting the ongoing joke amongst seniors of 2021 that the school will always look the same. Socially, however, the school has undergone a variety of changes. As Danka stated, the school is much nicer and accepting than before, but also significantly smaller. Fryer, Danka, and Zelonka all noted the “skeleton crew” that A-R now has, with downsizing in each department. Particularly noted by Danka and Fryer, the elementary school has downsized from 6 teachers to 4 in each hall, as the class sizes are continuing to decrease.
Jerry Moore, a middle school social studies teacher, offered a statement that differed from others. He stated that he felt the student attitude had not changed significantly since he was in school; however, middle school children may always remain the same, as middle school is a troubling time for teachers, students, and parents alike. He stated that he felt very comfortable with raising his daughter here, and the only changes he has seen is once again the reduction in student enrollment. Apollo-Ridge is very much still in the 1970s, as many teachers have noted.
Despite the troubles faced with the class of 2021 during this pandemic, many teachers offered a plethora of compliments to us, stating that our perseverance and continued kindness will forever stand out. “The class of 2021 will always be one of my favorite groups to come through. You guys were always just so nice to each other and involved.” Danka offered, and the class of 2021 has come to love this school just like these alumni. The series of interviews started as just a newspaper article, and turned into a tribute to Apollo-Ridge. The kind, inviting, and loving atmosphere created by both the students and teachers is impossible to miss, and while many can’t wait to graduate, there will always be a part of our hearts left within the walls that raised us. As someone once said, once a Viking, always a Viking.
Apollo-Ridge Alumni: Home of the Workforce Vikings
Apollo-Ridge has a rich tradition of alumni not only returning to serve their former district but a plethora of successful alumni that continue to contribute to the American workforce every day. Their lives are busy, creative, rewarding, and even grueling, but they have taken time out of their busy schedules to reach out to the Class of 2021 with personal messages and words of encouragement.
Amber Brown Thomas: Apollo-Ridge Class of 2012
Career: I.C.U. Nurse, Forbes Regional
Words to the Class of 2021:
"An intensive care unit (ICU) nurse is a registered nurse who specializes in delivering care to patients in intensive care units of hospitals and healthcare facilities. The duties include evaluating the patient’s conditions, administering treatment, and providing constant support during recovery. Forbes is a level two trauma center and a 20- bed ICU. I only care for one to two patients at a time due to the complexity of the care. I’m constantly reassessing for changes in patient conditions to alert the critical care doctor. I monitor labs, test, diagnostic procedures, update families, and administer continuous renal replacement therapy."
“Never give up! Sometimes life is hard, but working hard pays off!”
Career: I.C.U. Nurse, Forbes Regional
Words to the Class of 2021:
"An intensive care unit (ICU) nurse is a registered nurse who specializes in delivering care to patients in intensive care units of hospitals and healthcare facilities. The duties include evaluating the patient’s conditions, administering treatment, and providing constant support during recovery. Forbes is a level two trauma center and a 20- bed ICU. I only care for one to two patients at a time due to the complexity of the care. I’m constantly reassessing for changes in patient conditions to alert the critical care doctor. I monitor labs, test, diagnostic procedures, update families, and administer continuous renal replacement therapy."
“Never give up! Sometimes life is hard, but working hard pays off!”
Jayden Townsend: Apollo-Ridge Class of 2015
Career: United States Air Force / C-130 J Hercules Loadmaster Words to the Class of 2021: “I joined the military straight out of high school. I flew over 1300 hours on a plane we affectionately refer to as a trash can. I deployed three times, have been to twenty-five countries, and got to participate in a fly-over over the West Virginia Mountaineers Stadium. I’m also happy to report that I’m getting married in October. “My best advice to the graduating class of 2021 is simple: If you have any doubts of joining the military, just do it. Four years gets you free college, life skills and experiences you didn’t know you needed. Also, don’t be an idiot with your money.” |
Bri Bell: Apollo-Ridge Class of 2017
Career: I.C.U. Nurse, West Penn Hospital Words to the Class of 2021: “Working as a nurse has taught me so many life lessons in a short amount of time. Caring for critically ill patients has given me so many different perspectives on life. “The learning should never end. Always advocate for yourself, as this is how you continue to learn throughout life.” |
Samantha Artman Fluke: Apollo-Ridge Class of 2009
Career: Disability Claims Adjudicator Words to Class of 2021: “I complete medical reviews to determine if applicants are disabled according to Social Security law and policy. I work for the Bureau of Disability Determination in Greensburg, PA. “It’s okay to not know what you want to do or to change your mind if you do have your future mapped out. Keep an open-mind and always be willing to learn. You may find an industry that you are passionate about that you hadn’t thought of or knew about before.” |
Derek Campbell: Apollo-Ridge Class of 2008
Career: Real Estate Investor & Broker / Owner of Flash Realty Solutions, Houston, TX Words to the Class of 2021: “I would say to focus and follow your skills and passions in life. Try to never stop learning and growing. Travel whenever you can. Work harder than the next person, but also be smarter than them as well. Do not be afraid to move away from home (at least once in your life). You can always move back, but the experiences can be amazing if you do. Also, it doesn't matter where/if you decide to go to college if you absorb all you can while you are there. Most importantly, love your fellow man; everyone has their own story.” |
Britnee Knupp: Apollo-Ridge Class of 2008
Career: Family Nurse Practitioner, Matrix Medical Network Words to Class of 2021: “I work for a company that is contracted with insurance companies to obtain wellness exams in patients’ homes. As a nurse practitioner, I go to different patients' homes daily and conduct thorough comprehensive health exams, including physical examination, medication review, and recommendations for ongoing care. “My advice is to focus on the path you choose, put the hard work in and in the end it will pay off! Whether it be college or a trade school, there will be times where you will want to give up; always remember to push through. I promise there is a light at the end of the tunnel!!” |
Dominick Cicala: Apollo-Ridge Class of 2018
Career: Medical Student, Lecom Words to Class of 2021: “I am currently a Sophomore at Seton Hill University as an Osteopathic Medicine - Biology 4+4 major. I have been quite busy with school ever since graduating Apollo. I am the current Vice- President of the Honor College Council, an RA, and an officer in several other clubs. Right now, I am finishing up a semester-long research project investigating nicotine's effects on lung cells and tumor suppressor expression. “My advice for the coming graduates is to plan ahead extensively because in college due dates for projects, tests, etc. can appear with little mention and can be hard to keep on top of!” |
Claire Broman: Apollo-Ridge Class of 2015
Career: Biomedical and Mechanical Engineer / Technician --McKesson’s Biomedical Division Words to the Class of 2021: “I finished both degrees in four years to graduate in May 2019. A few months and several job applications later, I interviewed and accepted a position at McKesson’s Biomedical Division as a Biomedical Repair Technician. “One piece of advice I would give to you as you navigate college or even go straight into the workforce, is to set goals for yourself and get involved. You may not meet every single goal along your timeline, but you will be well on your way. I highly encourage you to get involved and try new things. If you go to college, join clubs, rec teams, or even on-campus jobs. If you decide you don’t like it, that’s alright; try something else and you might find something you love or someone! I promise you will still have time to hang out and have fun with your friends.” |
Andrew Hreha: Apollo-Ridge Class of 2017
Career: Aspiring Politician Words to the Class of 2021: “My journey to running for office dates back to last year. In January of 2020, I accepted an internship with the Pittsburgh Pirates in their Media Relations department. However, COVID-19 forced them to cancel this program, and I was without an internship for the summer which was required for my major. At the same time, I had finally made the decision to join the Libertarian Party and get involved. With good timing, I became the LPPA's first intern and established the Armstrong County Affiliate of the LPPA last summer. “Since then, we have been trying to find new ways to grow the party at the local level. When Representative Pyle resigned, we knew running a candidate would be a great way to gain a following and build membership. No one else sought the nomination within the party, so I decided to run. “My advice for seniors would be to work hard and create as many opportunities as possible. There isn't a rule that you need to have everything figured out now or even four years from now. If you are interested in something, get involved, work hard, and keep the connections that you make open. Also, remember that your greatest setbacks can create your best opportunities. I was devastated last year when I lost my Pirates internship. But now I'm doing that internship while also running for office, which wouldn't have been possible without that temporary setback. When things get difficult, make the most out of it and keep working hard, because better times are ahead.” |
Jessica Fatta: Apollo-Ridge Class of 2009
Career: Assistant Nurse Manager / Interim Nurse Manager, University Hospital, Georgia Words to Class of 2021: “I now live in Augusta, GA, where I am Assistant Nurse Manager/ Interim Nurse Manager at University Hospital over the resource float pool department (meaning all areas of the hospital and all skill levels of nurses). I have been a critical care nurse for seven years now. “My advice based on my own personal experiences is that it is okay to not know what you want to do at first. Go to a smaller school, a community school if you are undecided, and take classes until you figure out what you really want to do. The bigger the name, the bigger the price tag-I am still paying for that 1.5 years at WVU ;) Always pursue your goals and dreams. More importantly, keep pushing for those goals and dreams when obstacles come in your way (there will be a lot of those obstacles--- this is my own experience talking). “Accomplishing your goals and dreams requires hard work; it doesn't just come to you by wishing for it. Good luck to you all! Dream big and work hard!” :) |
James White: Apollo-Ridge Class of 2018
Career: Roto-Mill Operator / Swank Construction Words to Class of 2021: “I am a Roto-Mill operator for Swank Construction. A Roto-Mill cuts different types of materials such as blacktop, concrete, and dirt. These machines are very accurate with cutting grades and slopes properly to make sure that roads are nice and smooth when they are paved over. “Continued learning does not always take place in a classroom or on campus. Everyone learns differently and needs to be positive about dreams and goals.” |
Danielle McCormick: Apollo-Ridge Class of 2017
Career: Graduate Student of Speech-Language Pathology, IUP Words to the Class of 2021: “For grad school I’m going back to IUP for a masters of science in speech-language pathology where I’ll get to apply everything I learned in my undergrad and get practice in different clinical settings. For the past year, I’ve been nannying for a family that has a three-year-old girl. “Some advice I’d give is to not worry about having a timeline and sticking to it for your goals. A general timeline is okay, but don’t beat yourself up over not making your deadlines. Take things as they come and do your best!” |