Warrensburg Educator Honored by DESE

A Warrensburg educator was recently honored by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education with the 'Pioneer in Education Award.'

According to a press release from UCM, Beth Rutt was recognized for her commitment and contributions to education in Warrensburg as a longtime member of the Warrensburg R-6 Board of Education. She was one of six Missourians to receive the award at the 56th DESE Annual Cooperative Conference for School Administrators.

The press release says that Rutt has served on the R-6 Board of Education for a total of 27 years, including five years as president.

“It is a true honor to receive this recognition,” Rutt said. “I didn’t receive this award because of what I have done, but because of the many people who have helped and enabled me throughout the years. This is an award for my fellow school board members with whom I have served, as well as the faculty and staff of the district. Warrensburg is and has been blessed some the best teachers and administrators.”

“Mrs. Rutt’s contributions to our community over the past 34 years show her unwavering commitment to Warrensburg,” said Scott Patrick, Warrensburg R-6 superintendent of schools. “Her impact and service during this time has positively affected thousands of students and staff members in the Warrensburg School District. The value of Mrs. Rutt’s leadership and stability are unprecedented.  No one is more deserving of this honor and award than Beth Rutt.”

Rutt is currently the director of student activities at the University of Central Missouri. She has also taught courses in recreation and leisure, and leadership at UCM and served on several campus committees in leadership roles. She is the past president of the UCM Professional Staff Council and a recipient of the J.P. Mees Outstanding Professional Staff Award and the UCM Student Government Association’s James C. Kirkpatrick Excellence in Governance Award. She also provided leadership for the committee that planned the construction of the UCM Student Recreation and Wellness Center.

She served as recreation supervisor for the Warrensburg Parks and Recreation Department and joined the UCM staff in 2000 as an academic advisor. In 2003, she was was named director of student activities.

UCM say this is the 43rd consecutive year that DESE has presented the awards, which honors teachers, administrators, citizens, and lawmakers for their distinguished careers and contributions to Missouri public school.