Superintendent’s Letter

From the Superintendent...

Dear Bayless Community,

It is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that I officially introduce myself as Superintendent of Bayless School District. I am truly honored to serve in a community with a rich history and a deep commitment to providing greater opportunities for all students to become Smart, Good, and Strong.

I am a long-time South County resident along with my husband, who is also an educational administrator, and three children. As my sons and daughter grow, I enjoy helping each of them discover their passions: fine and performing arts; STEM and leadership; and athletics and outdoor recreation. As a parent, educator, former coach and athlete, and musician, I deeply understand the importance of a well-rounded education and access to a variety of high-quality extracurricular experiences.

Professionally, I have served Bayless School District as a teacher, instructional coordinator, and Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment for the past 14 years of my 21-year career. Some of my proudest moments have been when former students and their families reached out to update me on their successes in their lives and careers. I am also incredibly proud of the staff members, teachers, and leaders I have mentored and supported over the past decade. Watching them thrive and impact our students and community in a positive way both inspires and energizes me for the future.

As I begin my Superintendency, I draw great inspiration from Bayless’ first Superintendent, Violet C. Bascom, who also began her journey here as an 8th Grade teacher: “Bayless has set a high standard in the past, but the real spirit of Bayless is to aspire for greater excellence in the future.” As we turn the page, I am excited to continue building upon all of the remarkable accomplishments and take Bayless to new heights. This community has written an impressive story over these past 154 years and I am honored to assist with composing the next chapter.

Sincerely,

Amelia A. Ruzicka Superintendent of Schools

Bayless has set a high standard in the past, but the real spirit of Bayless is to aspire for greater excellence in the future. The future of Bayless is in your hands and hearts...

Violet C. Bascom, Superintendent (1932-1945) Excerpt from the 1932 Oracle - Bayless High School Yearbook

Violet C. Bascom First Superintendent of Bayless Schools 1917: Hired as an 8th grade teacher 1930: Appointed Superintendent of Schools Amelia A. Ruzicka Tenth Superintendent of Bayless Schools 2008: Hired as an 8th grade teacher 2022: Appointed Superintendent of Schools