The New Jersey School Boards Association honored a select group of school staff members during its annual Workshop in October 2025. The third annual “Unsung Superheroes in Education Awards” ceremony recognized individuals in pre-K-12 public education before a statewide audience in Atlantic City. The honorees were nominated for working tirelessly behind the scenes — often without recognition — to help ensure New Jersey’s schools run smoothly. Their efforts support safe, nurturing environments for students and help staff and administrators serve as effective leaders.
The association’s weekly online newsletter, School Board Notes, highlights each recipient. This week, we get to know Ruth Krysinski, the longest serving among last year’s award winners, and at the golden age of 96.
Krysinski began working for the Clinton Township School System in 1976. After a very brief hiatus and some changes when the cafeteria was managed by an outside company, she is currently employed as a cafeteria monitor at the Round Valley School in Lebanon.
After a breast cancer diagnosis at 88, she decided to cut back from working in the kitchen, but she still calls the cafeteria home.
The Lebanon Township resident is known to many as “Mrs K.” or “Miss Ruthie” enjoys seeing the kids every day, learning about them and making them laugh.
“She makes them laugh, too. And she believes everyone needs laughter and joy in their lives,” said Kristina Maiwaldt, her daughter.
Born in Germany in 1930, Krysinski often shares stories with children about her long life and surviving World War II. She speaks openly about food insecurity, recalling how, as a child their age, she frequently went hungry during the war. Through her experiences, Krysinski encourages children to appreciate the good in life and reminds them that with a positive attitude, they can achieve anything they set their minds to.
“She feels she is a grandma figure to some kids who don’t have a grandma, or their grandma lives far away,” Maiwaldt added. “She hopes to be remembered as someone who was a kind inspiration. She often hears the kids say that she is always smiling, which invites them to smile back.”
As a humble person who does not seek or welcome attention, Krysinski deeply appreciates the NJSBA Unsung Superhero Award.
“I was so excited and honored, to me it felt like I won an Oscar,” Krysinski said. “I wanted to thank the board who was so wonderful to recognize me at this stage in my life. I felt so accomplished and seen.”
The NJSBA congratulates Ruth Krysinski on this inspiring achievement!
Nominations for the 2026 Unsung Superheroes in Education Awards are open. To nominate a candidate, complete and submit a form by June 30, 2026. Winners will be recognized at the NJSBA Workshop, scheduled for Oct. 19 to 22 at the Atlantic City Convention Center.
