Penny Rush, the administrative assistant at Crisman Elementary School in Portage, is a true testament to the power of taking a chance and finding life’s calling. What started as a simple substitute teaching gig transformed into a fulfilling 18-year career, making her an invaluable asset in the school community.
“All the teachers I work with are fantastic,” said Rush. “They are all considerate and caring. I appreciate how we are all like one big family.”
Rush’s secretarial journey to Crisman arose while she subbed at various schools. One day, an unexpected offer emerged from a former principal at George L. Myers Elementary School.
“I had a high school diploma and decided I wanted to work part-time because I had been working full-time for years,” said Rush. “I had worked in offices before and started subbing. The principal came up to me one day and told me that I would be a good fit for the secretary position at Crisman.”
While not actively seeking employment, Rush took the leap after the principal’s persistent encouragement. She acquired her first secretarial role in an academic setting and set herself up for almost two decades in the field.
“There are always new things that need to be done, so a lot of the work gets put on the secretary because there is no one else to do it,” said Rush.
Rush’s weekly agenda during the academic year is filled with a diverse range of tasks, from answering the phones to assisting teachers and the principal. Her work ensures the smooth operation of the school, including the oversight of about 380 students. Her responsibilities have evolved over the years, including adjusting to new software updates. For Rush, the toughest obstacle she tries to overcome is navigating the changing dynamic of student behavior.
“There is not as much respect in the classroom as there used to be,” said Rush. “Whether it is the new generation, the pandemic, or how they were raised, there are a lot of kids who do not show respect. I feel they respect me maybe because of my age, but respect is a good thing. I think it is important that we try to help these kids without tearing them down.”
Despite modern challenges in the classroom, Rush finds immense joy in her position. She cherishes the close relationships she builds with past and present students and parents.
“Every year, it is hard for me to hold back tears when the kids leave fifth grade,” said Rush. “You get so close to these kids and get to know them. It is also very special when students come back to visit or apologize for past misbehavior. I always tell my apologetic students that it is a part of growing up.”
Much like her love for the student body, Rush’s fondness for her colleagues runs deep. In her own health struggles and past surgeries, she takes pride in how her colleagues have always taken time to reach out and ensure her wellbeing.
“A lot of the teachers are like my children,” said Rush. “There are a few who are a little bit older, but some that are younger than my two girls. I appreciate how well we all get along and how fantastic they all are.”
Rush is determined to hold off on retiring until after the age of 70 and plans to embrace every moment she can at Crisman. Outside of her work, Rush enjoys pursuing her love of crafts, particularly sewing and diamond art, and spending time with her family, including her two daughters, four grandkids, and two sisters.
“I am excited to get back and start the new year,” said Rush. “I am excited to see the teachers and people I do not see as often during the summer. My grandkids are growing fast every year too, so spending time with them is important. Before returning to work, my sisters and I will be going back and forth from Lafayette to here to see each other. We have our little spats from time to time, but we have always been very close.”
Rush’s dedication and genuine love for those at Crisman continue to shine bright. Her steadfast commitment to her role shows how fulfilling life’s journey can be when you develop a genuine love for the people you serve. Her career also attests to the tight-knit community of teachers and students within Portage Township Schools.