Celebrating David Rufus's Retirement

As May continues and the end of the school year nears, I share with our community that Mr. David Rufus will be retiring after over 20 years at Providence High School. First joining us in the 2005-2006 school year, David Rufus has been a longstanding member of the Mathematics and Science faculty, having taught hundreds and hundreds of students during his tenure.  

While most his time at Providence has been spent in the classroom, David’s influence has extended well beyond it. As Mathematics Department Chair, he played a key role in shaping the curriculum, including the introduction of Financial Algebra as a UC-approved course. Over the years, David also generously contributed his time and talents to community efforts, including supporting initiatives such as Adopt-A-Family deliveries and serving on the Science Center building committee. 

David’s presence has truly been a gift to the Providence High School community. His love for the teaching craft and dedication to his students is apparent in every encounter and conversation, it’s nearly as deep as his love for Tennis. We thank you for the impact you have made the many students that have been in your classroom, that walk the halls, and the colleagues you have served alongside of since 2005.  

While we will miss you dearly, we are so excited for your next chapter of retirement and all that awaits you. Providence High School is a better place because of you, and we thank you for all the ways you have supported our community.  

A Note from David 

“Looking back to the many years, the journey has been long for both its triumphs and failures. There are so many to thank, for their support, care, and guidance, I dare not try to name them because I may just forget someone. My sincere gratitude to ALL who have played an important part in this journey. I continue to cherish every experience and every memory. 

I recall very vividly my first visit to the campus when Sister Mary Hawkins was walking me around the campus. There were many students who recognized me, and they were from my 8th grade class who joined Providence High. That is when Sister Mary turned to me and said” so you already have a fan club- that was the beginning of growing that fan club. 

To the Sisters of Providence, Principals and Leadership, Supervisors, Colleagues, Parents, I say a BIG thank you for your love and support. To my family and extended family who continue to support me in this journey right through the three countries of teaching- Thank you. 

I know there is much to say about this journey, but I will close with the words of Robert Frost in “Stopping by the woods” 

The woods are lovely, dark and deep,    

But I have promises to keep,    

And miles to go before I sleep,    

And miles to go before I sleep.  
 
I look forward to taking the time to relax, reflect, and re- tire (Costco has a good offer. Buy three and get the fourth free) and get back on the road.  To God be the glory, great things He has done. I thank God for the blessing of opportunities to fulfil His purpose.

With Love and gratitude, 
David. Rufus ($DB)”

What colleagues say about David 

“After 20 years of working together, it is very difficult to say goodbye. You have been a friend and an important part of so many lives. Your dedication, kindness, and passion for teaching have inspired students, staff, and everyone fortunate enough to know you. The years we shared brought many memories, challenges, laughter, and accomplishments that I will always cherish. Your impact on this school and on the countless students you guided will never be forgotten. Thank you for your friendship, support, and the wonderful memories over these 20 years. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.” —Sona Ashjian, Medical Program Assistant 

“Mr. Rufus has been an integral part of the Math Department for so many years. He always encourages everyone to find connections among everything we learn. Mr. Rufus loves to teach and is always ready to help his students no matter the subject or level. He is a true model of the core values of our school. No matter if it is in the classroom or talking about his favorite professional tennis players, Mr. Rufus has a huge smile on his face and is ready to make an impact every day.”—Olga Barahona, STEMM Faculty 

“David Rufus has been a great friend and colleague. He is a consummate professional – always focused on the students and the quality of the education he, and we as an institution, provide. Whether we as a community are discussing practical or philosophical educational matters, David is always ready to share his vast experience, his wisdom, and his wit. He is someone who can always be counted on – he always keeps his word and serves his community and his students with dignity and respect. David and I spent many-a-Christmastime Adopt-a-Family delivery drive together. We shared ideas, stories, opinions and, most of all, laughs. David, I’m going to miss you immensely. This community will miss you immensely. You have given so much over these many years. Good luck, my friend – you are already missed! We will keep in touch…!”—Dennis Bullock ‘88, Humanities Faculty 

“For 16 years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Mr. David Rufus, Providence High School’s own academic Swiss Army knife. From science labs to math equations, he could teach it all with brilliance, wit, and unmistakable style. Thousands of former students still tell stories about their legendary math teacher, and rightly so. Mr. Rufus always had the perfect quote ready... or at least one delightfully eccentric enough to become unforgettable. He is more than a colleague, he is a friend.”—David Bird, STEM Department Chair 

“David Rufus has been a cherished part of the Providence community for decades, and I’ve been lucky enough to know him as both a teacher and a colleague. As my junior-year homeroom teacher, he made mornings something to look forward to by naming our daily breakfast group “The Breakfast Club” and proudly appointing himself president. Now as a colleague, his friendly waves and quick check-ins brighten my day. Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement, Mr. Rufus, and best of luck in whatever comes next!”—Amanda Santos ‘11, Receptionist 
 
As David embarks on this new journey, we celebrate him and all his contributions to the Providence High School community. May he carry the Providence spirit with him into retirement and all who he encounters. Thank you for all that you have done for Providence High School, David Rufus.   

In Providence, 
 
Scott McLarty 
Head of School