More than a Mentor: Ruane is an Icon at CCHS

By Alexander Rennick, CCHS Senior 

April 3, 2025

Whether it be his willingness to keep his class engaged, or his wit being put on full display, Mr. Ruane has traits many of us will never forget. His well drilled structure in the classroom may have created some annoyance for his younger students, yet I’d argue most of those students have grown because of it. His desire to push his students to their limit as readers and writers has made many of us appreciate him even more. Colonie Central High School wouldn’t be the same without its most iconic teacher: Kevin Ruane,

When I first met Ruane my sophomore year I couldn’t have been more surprised. His immense reputation led me to believe he was cold and ruthless; however, that couldn’t be farther from the truth. I remember when I went to ask him a question about the structure of an upcoming test. As I approached him I noticed him talking to another student in his class. Surely they had to be talking about the curriculum or the AP exam. To my surprise, he was actually talking with him about English soccer teams. I was shocked that someone revered as such a strict person could ever be that casual as well. 

Mr. Ruane has always been notorious for displaying a “tough love” attitude with all of his students. Everyone that he’s taught could probably say, to an extent, that they’ve felt pressure from the workload in his class. He’s never given free handouts. Whether it is a deadline or an upcoming assessment Ruane keeps his students in line with their learning. He’s made it clear that he won’t tolerate meritocracy.

During his interview Ruane disclosed that he prefers immediate respect and engagement from his students.

“By day two of my class you should know that this is my classroom,” said Ruane confidently.

He acknowledges that there are other methods of teaching, but he isn’t interested in adapting for the appeasement of his students; he wouldn’t change his style even if it made him seem nicer because of his independence. He believes that his way will help students learn, as it helped him when he was younger. 

I asked CCHS senior Jermaine He about the expectations that Ruane set in his class. Jermaine noticed that Ruane demands accountability and self awareness from all of his students to help them prosper.

“He expects a level of intention from his students,” said He.

I also asked Ruane about which traits he prefers students to have in a classroom. Possibly to some students' surprise, he claimed that passion and participation were the most important. He explained that having someone in his class that enjoys the content with a willingness to constantly participate can inspire a class to do the same.

“I’d much rather have someone coming in hands up who couldn’t answer a question to save his or her life. That type of energy is contagious,” Ruane said while comparing a student that enjoys the class to someone who may be smarter yet timid.

He may be tough in class, but he always understands when his students make mistakes. Ruane is human before a mentor. He can understand his student’s shortcomings. 

“It’s ok to be human. It’s ok to screw up. Nobody is perfect,” said Ruane, casually laying back in his chair. 

Ruane can relate to his students even if his philosophy is different than theirs. 

I asked CCHS senior Ian Zhender about his thoughts about Ruane and how considerate he is with his students. Zhender claimed to have benefited from his class and considers Ruane one of the most thoughtful teachers he’s had.

“He’s very thoughtful and introspective,” said Zhender.

I asked Ruane during his interview about what he likes to do in his free time. He was eager to discuss his interest in the English Premier League, something I can relate to. Connecting with the world around him through football eases his stress of teaching trails; doing something to recharge helps him. 

Ruane always appreciates students’ moments of triumph. Those instances may not be in classroom either. Ruane mentioned that he enjoys watching his students succeed outside of the classroom.

“I always love catching people in their most auspicious moment,” said Ruane.

Ruane was rightfully voted the most iconic teacher by the class of 2025. He claimed that he hadn’t even known about teacher awards in the first place. The impression that he left on all of his students is truly unforgettable. I couldn’t think of someone more deserving of such an award. Colonie Central High School wouldn’t be the same without him.