Ruby Wells
St. Joseph School District teachers at Title 1 schools may apply by Jan. 10 for a scholarship to take their class on a unique field trip this spring, through the Ruby Kate Wells Memorial Fund for Needy Children. The purpose of the Fund is to provide enriching experiences, through educational trips, for children who may not otherwise have such opportunities.
The fund was created to honor the memory of Ruby Kate Wells, daughter of Tara and Scott Wells, who died unexpectedly in 2008 at the age of 16 months. “We just really wanted to do something that would keep Ruby’s memory alive,” said Tara Wells, who is principal at Pershing Elementary. “She was only 16 months, but even at that age, she was a very giving girl. We were just compelled to do something that was related to young kids.
“This scholarship was a way we could influence a lot of kids – not just one person. The teachers are really creative in coming up with potential trips, and it’s really hard to choose which trip to fund. You look for the enrichment potential, something that’s an experience the kids wouldn’t otherwise have.”
Last year, the scholarship went to Todd Shalz at Mark Twain Elementary, who took his students to Missouri Western State University and KCTV5 in Kansas City to learn about video production. Students also had the opportunity to eat lunch at the Country Club Plaza.
“Of course, the kids are really naïve; they thought video production is all acting; on this trip, they got to see all of the people in the background.” Mark Twain now has a video news program, and many of the Mark Twain students are now doing the news at Truman and Bode Middle School, and are considering careers in communications.
When the Fund was first established, the community stepped up to support it. “It was overwhelming and humbling to see the support,” said Wells. “It helps me to know that people remember Ruby.” The Fund is administered through the St. Joseph School District Foundation. To donate, contact Tara Wells at 671-4320.