Name: Rudy Nesbitt
Occupation & School: Paraprofessional @ Pittsburgh Conroy in the Recycling Program
Years In Education: 25 years
Years At Current Position/School: 1st year
Previously, I … worked at Pace School, Middle School Autistic Support and as an Assistant Teacher for 7 years.
PFT: What compelled you to become a teacher and/or to work in education?
Rudy: I was always intrigued by special needs students due to growing up with a special needs brother. I also have a autistic son, so I feel it was meant for my journey in life to help special need students.
PFT: What do you like best about your career choice and job?
Rudy: I love all kids, but I have a special place in my heart for special need students due to my brother and son. I love challenges and love to see the students progress as they grow into adulthood,
PFT: Where/what school(s) did you pursue higher education?
Rudy: I attended CCAC and then Edinboro University where I earned a degree in Personal Training and Nutrition.
PFT: In your opinion, what are the greatest challenges faced by educators today? Students? School districts? Any challenges specific to your subject matter expertise?
Rudy: I feel the greatest challenges in education today are our lack of technology across the board; unhealthy buildings for some students.; and lack of parental support due to inner city poverty and other community issues in the city.
PFT: When did you join the union? Do you participate in any committees or hold any leadership positions? Ever taken any coursework or continuing education?
Rudy: I joined the union in 2002. I was the Para building rep at several schools, and I help organize and participate in The Labor Day Parade.
PFT: In your own words, why is having union representation important? What’s the best thing about being in a union, whether you are an active or more passive participant?
Rudy: I think from a personal perspective having union representation gives me and others a fair shot with positions that open up, and getting a fair shake when administrators do not treat you with respect and (make you feel like) they’re targeting you throughout your career.
PFT: Do you have a mentor that introduced you to the PFT/Union? Please share who—and what that person meant to you and to your member development.
Rudy: The late great Nate Smith was my mentor.
He taught me the importance and meaning of having a great union. He showed me videos of marches, and the strength the union provided for those who did not get treated fairly in the workforce. Nate was like the father figure I never had, and had such a strong presence in his speeches and kindness he shared with everyone during his time on Earth.
FINAL NOTES and Lightning Round:
People are surprised to learn... that I played the saxophone long ago — Ha!😊
Also? I was a 2x state and 2x national Drug-Free powerlifting champion along with placing 2nd in The Drug-Free World Championships.
Rudy‘s FAVORITE…
Movie: Brian’s Song
Book: The Holy Bible
Author: Maya Angelou
Singer: Luther Vandross
Song: Always and Forever
Color: Red
Food: Lasagna
Time of year: Summer
FAVORITE “SHARE-ABLE” QUOTE:
“The Road To Your Greatness Is Already Determined. Never Give Up!”
