Farewell to Ruben Parra

“It’s hard for me to separate Ruben and VCS as the two have always been intertwined. From my very first days at VCS, Ruben was the person I met with about my classroom, my curriculum, and the student dynamics in my class. As a new teacher, his insights and knowledge about VCS were invaluable.

It always impressed me how well Ruben knew all the students throughout the school. Their names, of course, but also the details of their friendships and the intricacies of their personalities. He cared deeply for all students and was invested in building relationships with each one. His commitment to nurturing a positive and inclusive school community will not be forgotten.”

—Alison Wiggins, 4th Grade ELA Teacher

“Ruben Parra, what a guy. I was lucky enough to have Ruben as my five-year-old boy’s first Kindergarten teacher at VCS. It was Ruben’s first year too. This tall man was George’s first image of a teacher. And then, on top of that, he taught George in 1st Grade as well. Ruben was smart, warm, and attentive, all while being benevolently firm.

While I was Chair of the Board, Ruben was a dependable source of straightforward observation and good judgment. When I was a parent with an issue, he was understanding but resolute about school policy, even when I was both Chair and parent at the same time.

All I can say about Ruben is that wherever he ends up, those around him will be exceedingly fortunate.”

Obie Benz, Alumni Parent, Former Board Chair

After 20 years at VCS, Ruben Parra is off to begin a new chapter. First joining us as a teacher in a K/1st Grade classroom—then called “the 5/6s”—Ruben’s expertise in childhood development and intuitive ability to connect with students quickly earned him a place on the school’s administration, where he has served in various roles ever since. Through his thoughtful work with students, families, and staff, Ruben made an immeasurable impact on the school, and we are grateful for the compassionate leadership and good humor he demonstrated throughout his tenure at VCS.

“I remember the day I met Ruben. I was teaching Kindergarten at the time, and we had a very last-minute vacancy in the grade. The other head teacher and I had interviewed all day with no success. Then, in walked Ruben. We knew he was our person. Ruben’s students took to him right away—he was someone they could trust, depend on, and have fun with.

Ruben’s time as a classroom teacher may have been relatively brief, but he continued to put students at the center of his work after becoming an administrator. He has a way of making each child feel like they are the most important person in the room; he asks them questions out of genuine curiosity and is an exceptional listener. In his work with faculty, Ruben is equally present and attentive.

There are so many things that just make Ruben, Ruben: his daily walks to get coffee; the myriad plants in his office, tended to with utmost care; the snazzy socks he wears each day. For the past 20 years, Ruben has been an unflappable presence amidst the business of school life. I will miss him greatly.”

—Sarah Williamson-Broadman, Lower School Director