Longtime Hoboken Educator, Coach Recognized for 40 Years of Service

There wasn’t a dry eye at Hoboken High School on at an event honoring Ruben Gonzalez.  That’s because many of the officials, students, alumni, and friends in attendance say the educator and athletic coach made a positive and lasting impact on their lives. After nearly 40 years of service to Hoboken Public Schools and the community, Gonzalez is retiring on July 1, 2014.

Chris Campos, Chief of Staff for Assemblyman Carmelo Garcia, presented Gonzalez with a joint resolution on behalf of Senator Brian Stack and Assemblymen Carmelo Garcia and Raj Mukherji. Campos, who played on Coach Gonzalez’s championship baseball team in 1994, couldn’t hold back his emotion when he talked about the beloved coach and educator.  “Ruben Gonzalez has touched so many lives,” said Campos.  “He is more than a coach.  He is a mentor and a friend who supports and inspires young people to reach their full potential and strive for their dreams.  It’s so fitting that we honor Mr. Gonzalez because he is an outstanding individual who has left an indelible mark on this school and community.”

Mr. Gonzalez has taught English as a Second Language and served as the examiner of the High School Proficiency Exam. He’s also been a Student Council Advisor for than 20 years. During his 10 years serving as a coach for the Hoboken High School Varsity Baseball team, the team played for the championship seven times and won the title four times. Gonzalez also coached the track team for several years.

But winning championship titles isn’t what stands out as his greatest accomplishment.  “As an educator, it’s gratifying to see the kids I have taught overcome obstacles and excel,” said Gonzalez.  “Many of my students come from different parts of the world such as South America, China, and India so for them to pass the proficiency test in English is a great accomplishment.”

Gonzalez is also proud to see his former students grow up to be successful productive individuals.  “Some of my students have become doctors, scientists, teachers, firefighters, lawyers like Chris Campos, and other notable professions,” said Gonzalez. “I am so proud of them and very grateful I was blessed with the opportunity to do this work for nearly 40 years.”

Gonzalez also devoted much of his time volunteering at Saint Francis Church in Hoboken where has served as Parish Council President, a Trustee, and a Eucharistic Minister.