Western New Mexico University will induct three career educators into the School of Education Hall of Fame as part of the 2015 spring commencement ceremony activities.
Emily Berry Armstrong is being inducted posthumously. Armstrong was an elementary school teacher for 42 years. She is being recognized for meeting the challenges of serving in a one-room rural schoolhouse, in Dona Ana and Luna Counties. Her career included serving as a teacher, principal, school nurse, janitor and bus driver. Armstrong instituted a bilingual program for ESL students and nurtured her students’ participation in the community. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from WNMU in 1951.
Dora Joe Berry Munson is being inducted posthumously. Munson earned a baccalaureate and master’s degree from WNMU in 1959. Her career included serving as an elementary school teacher for 27 years in Luna County. After one year of college she began her teaching career in a one-room school at Spaulding, New Mexico where she was employed to teach railroad children and surrounding ranch families’ children. While serving as Superintendent, she is credited with developing the first teacher’s salary schedule wherein all teachers were treated equitably on a salary schedule.
Donald A. Rydeski is being recognized for his 35-year career in public education. Rydeski’s service as a science teacher at La Plata Middle School is described as passionate. He is described as a strong teacher known for his classroom management skills, incorporating personal responsibility and strong work ethic. His dedication to student learning has earned him the respect of both current and former students. Rydeski earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from WNMU in 1980.
The School of Education Hall of Fame was established in 1985 to recognize and honor exemplary educators and to serve as a depository of record for the accomplishments of those selected.