We are proud to share that Ronald Rutstein has been named the 2026 Massachusetts Association of Approved Private Schools (MAAPS) Excellence in Teaching Award recipient.
Ronald Rutstein, Special Education Teacher at Mill Pond School’s Berkshires Campus, has been selected as this year’s MAAPS Excellence in Teaching Award recipient. This honor recognizes his outstanding dedication, professionalism, and the meaningful impact he has on students and the broader school community.
Mr. Rutstein’s work is grounded in compassion, consistency, and a strong trauma-informed approach. He creates a safe, supportive environment where students feel respected and capable, even while navigating significant challenges. Through his ability to build trust and co-regulate, he helps students reengage both academically and emotionally, as seen in the transformation of a high-needs senior who regained confidence and purpose through his guidance.
Mr. Rutstein brings innovation and creativity into the classroom by expanding access to hands-on STEM learning. Through inquiry-based projects and technology-rich lessons, he creates opportunities for students to explore, problem-solve, and succeed in ways that build both skill and confidence.
His dedication extends far beyond the classroom. He consistently goes above
and beyond to support students, collaborates closely with families and clinicians, and provides calm, steady leadership during challenging moments. He also strengthens the broader school community by coaching colleagues and sharing best practices.
Mr. Rutstein is committed to continuous learning, consistently applying research-based strategies to better support his students. Through his compassion and dedication, he has made a meaningful impact and is truly deserving of the MAAPS Excellence in Teaching Award.
About MAAPS
MAAPS’ mission is to represent private special education schools in their goal of providing the highest quality education to students with special needs. Learn more at Maaps.org.
About Mill Pond School
The Mill Pond Schools located in Springfield and Richmond, MA, are therapeutic schools serving students—kindergarten through age 22—who have social-emotional and/or behavioral challenges, a learning disability, or who may have a diagnosis of high-functioning Autism. Our goal is to assist students in developing the skills necessary to successfully return to a less-restrictive environment, and, ultimately, to their previous school setting. Funds raised will go towards improving the school building, playground, and basketball court, as well as expanding extracurricular offerings for students. Read more here.