St. Raymond’s principal celebrates her 25th anniversary

It’s all about the children at St. Raymond’s School of East Rockaway, said Sister Ruthanne Gypalo.

The beloved principal has spent 25 years as not only the school’s leader, but as a hero to those around her. Whenever you hear students and administrators talk about her, it is with such pride and joy. It’s as if they consider her to be family, a familiar guide, and the feeling is mutual.

“My fondest memories have to do with the children,” she said. “We share in their achievement, watching them. They make me very proud.”

She remembered one special event with the biggest smile. It was during a school band trip to Ireland in 1990, where the students marched in the St. Patrick’s Day parade. The band entertained the crowd twice while there. “It was a high point and a wonderful time,” she said.

Her passion is memorable, proving that the students have touched her heart. Most importantly, it demonstrates a selflessness, especially when recounting the students’ kind acts, including raising a total of $90,000 for St. Jude’s research hospital with their annual marathon over the last 25 years. The kids are very “service-oriented and mission wise,” she said.

And not surprisingly, spending time with the students is the favorite part of her job. Lunch duty is a simple enjoyment, she added. Watching former students come back to visit or even teach is impressive, and learning about them is something she cherishes.

Her history at St. Raymond’s is full of other notable events and accomplishments, too. There have been several long-term teachers since she was appointed in 1986, she said. Many parents are also former graduates, part of a tradition that she said makes her proud.

“We have grown a lot,” she said about the teachers. “We endured deaths of loved ones … we are a very close knit group, and are supportive of each other.”

Looking back, that tradition means so much to her, though she is also happy about many of the school’s cosmetic changes as well, including new doors and windows. Aside from that, children’s use of technology has changed since she began at the school, she noted. Many of the school’s new fitness initiatives are helping promote a more health-conscious lifestyle at St. Raymond’s, she noted.

And she has also gained insight on herself. The years have brought more patience, and the lesson that you cannot please everyone. “I have trust in the Lord that we are making the right decision for the big picture,” she said.

Friends and colleagues summed up their picture of Gypalo. “I am so fortunate and blessed that I have had her support, and friendship,” said Sr. Evelyn Contaldi, director of the church’s religious education. “For that, I am truly grateful.”

Parent Melissa Abuin, who is also school board’s vice president, speaks highly of Gypalo. “I have great affection and respect for Sister Ruthanne for her ongoing, cheerful dedication to the school, to making sure each and every student is safe and happy, and for providing a caring, spiritual environment for the students to learn about God and to care for others,” she said.

And there are many other parents, students, priests, parishioners and alumni who honored Gypalo at a special Mass and reception on May 15. St. Raymond’s pastor Fr. Chuck Romano spoke a special blessing for Gypalo, and the school’s second-graders sang an original song. St. Raymond’s presented a memory book of photos and personal letters from families and special wishes from students, and the school board gave an anniversary plaque.

With a bright outlook for the future of St. Raymond’s, Gypalo is here to stay. “I am grateful for all the years of support that everyone has given,” she said. “I am not retiring, just celebrating.”