K-12 Excellence Spotlight: Wendy Ritz and Marley Baker
Recognized for making a meaningful difference in Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania
When a student forgets their coat on a cold day, they don’t have to ask for help at Southern Fulton School District.
There's already a coat waiting by the playground door.
It's a small gesture, but one that reflects how school counselors Wendy Ritz and Marley Baker approach their work. They focus on identifying needs and making sure every student feels supported.
“They do all kinds of things we don't even ask them to do,” said Superintendent Meredith Hendershot. “I think it creates a safe and secure environment where kids feel comfortable to be able to learn.”
Ritz helped establish a food pantry so no student has to worry about going hungry while Baker created a supply closet and coat station. Both have helped ensure basic needs don’t become barriers to learning.
“The kids really rely on them,” said David Cason, Director of Technology and Operations. “I think they do not get enough credit for what they do.”
They support students and their families in many ways behind the scenes. In some cases, it's helping students navigate academic and social-emotional challenges. In others, it's connecting families with resources for much needed support. It can also be guiding students through testing and graduation requirements. These are just a few examples of how their work extends beyond what many people see.
“They go above and beyond every single day for our kiddos,” said Tyler Burns, Principal of Southern Fulton Elementary School. “They also do a lot with the community. Not just for our students, but also for our parents and families. People trust them. They know they can go to them with any needs as well.”
The relationships they build with students leave a lasting impression.
“Someone was having a hard time and my son said, ‘He needs to spend a month with Mrs. Baker,’” said Laura Mellott, MTSS Coordinator and Title I Interventionist. “He knows she possesses the core values, and those are: be kind, be safe, and be responsible. She embodies that herself and puts that out into our school every day.”
Through both small gestures and significant moments, Ritz and Baker make a difference every day. They help students feel supported, valued, and capable of becoming the best version of themselves.
Watch Wendy and Marley’s recognition video to hear more from their administration.
Know someone making a difference in your district?
The Sourcewell K-12 Excellence Spotlight celebrates the people who uplift their school communities. These individuals strengthen schools and help students succeed in ways that don’t often make headlines but always make an impact.
From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to back offices, you can nominate anyone who helps your school thrive. Nominations are open year-round.
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