Beloved special education teacher Anthony Ruttenburg at Plano East High School is currently recovering in the hospital following a serious motorcycle crash during the fall break. Mr. Ruttenburg, known for starting the Panther Pride basketball team for students with special needs, was injured in a collision with another vehicle along Highway 78 in Sachse. His daughter, Alaira Ruttenburg, described the panic and fear she felt when she first saw her father barely conscious after the crash. Ruttenburg suffered multiple injuries including broken ribs, a pelvic fracture, spine injury, torn ligaments, and a shattered collarbone that required surgery.
As a longtime special education teacher, Ruttenburg has made a significant impact on the special needs community in North Texas, especially through his Panther Pride basketball team. His own son, who has autism, is a part of this team and has been eagerly awaiting his father’s recovery. Ruttenburg is currently undergoing rehabilitation at Medical City Plano, with a long road to recovery ahead. It is estimated that he will be in rehab for the next three to four months, and learning to walk again could take up to a year.
Friends, family, and colleagues are rallying behind Ruttenburg, sending thoughts and prayers for his speedy recovery. Despite the uncertainty of when he will return to teaching, there is no doubt that Mr. Ruttenburg’s dedication and passion for his students will continue to inspire the Plano East community.
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