Ryanne Ludington

Ryanne Ludington of Rockford has been spent her whole nine-year teaching career at Rockford’s Bloom Elementary, where she teaches fourth grade. Her assistant principal, Nikisha Johnson wrote that she “leads her fourth-grade team through data-informed decision-making, using research-based instructional strategies to engage students in meaningful learning experiences that will lead to student success.” Ryanne says, “As a professional educator, I strive to create a community of learners that includes my students and their families. Working together, we dive deep into content, build relationships, address students’ individual needs and challenge each other to meet high expectations. I hope to be a spark to lead them in a positive direction.” Ryanne definitely helped ignite one student who had previously been considered impossible to reach, destructive and problematic. He “made racially loaded threats and used four-letter words more fluently than a sailor.” Through modifying expectations, implementing breaks, using fidgets and creating a safe zone, Ryanne was able to show this student that she cared and that he was safe to participate with the class. She regularly uses restoration circles to listen, validate feelings, provide feedback, discuss issues and restore harm that interferes with students’ ability to work together. The circles allow “students to hear what others were feeling and take accountability without fear of retribution.” The “problem student” slowly went from mocking the circles to sharing small pieces of himself as the other students welcomed his participation apprehensively. He made strides academically and even made a few friends. Ryanne also partners with families for student success. She sends assignments home weekly for them to work on together that use common household supplies and the standards and goals the class is working on. She includes reading discussion questions that connect content to the real world. Additionally, Ryanne knows the importance of finding the reasons a student is struggling. She has created a donation drive to provide underwear and offers snacks or quiet zones to make sure students are comfortable and ready to learn. Several classroom observers noted the deep respect she and her students have for each other. They noted that Ryanne treats everyone fairly and encourages participation. One wrote that she has created “a positive, encouraging learning place.”