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Student Spotlight: Rith Reaksmey

At just 12 years old, Rith Reaksmey, a Grade 6A student, has already spent most of her childhood learning and growing at Spitler School. She first joined the school as a kindergarten student in 2019 and has continued her educational journey here ever since.

Reaksmey lives with her parents and three siblings and is the youngest child in her family. Her mother is a housewife, while her father works as a truck driver. Despite the challenges that many families face, Reaksmey remains dedicated to her studies and hopeful about her future.

Among all her subjects, Khmer and English are her favorites. She especially enjoys reading stories in both languages, which has helped strengthen her language skills and deepen her love of learning. She has also developed practical computer skills and can confidently use Microsoft Word for basic administrative tasks, while having some experience with Microsoft Excel.

As she prepares to graduate from Spitler School, Reaksmey plans to continue her education at Stephen Mazujian Middle School, which is close to her home and offers the programs she needs for the next stage of her studies.

Looking ahead, Reaksmey dreams of becoming a Khmer language teacher. Inspired by her passion for the subject, she hopes to one day guide and encourage future generations of students, just as her own teachers have supported her throughout the years.

We are proud of Reaksmey’s achievements and determination, and we wish her every success as she takes this exciting next step in her educational journey.

Spitler School Staff Honor the Passing of a Patriarch

The staff of Spitler School recently joined the Spitler family in mourning the loss—while honoring the remarkable legacy—of Irvin Spitler, who passed away peacefully at the age of 97.
Irvin was the father of Spitler School founders Danny and Pam Spitler.

From the very beginning, Irvin was a steadfast supporter of the school’s mission. He financed the construction of the first permanent school building and continued to provide funding for a number of special projects over the years. His dedication played an important role in helping the school grow and serve generations of students. His last visit to the school was in 2015, when he was 87 years old.

The Spitler family was deeply moved when the staff held a special moment of silence to honor his memory. In tribute to their father, Irvin’s children have designated a $10,000 gift to the school.

This generous gift will help fund repairs to one of the roads used daily by Spitler School students and their families. The road will be named Ang Chagn Peace – Irvin Spitler Road in recognition of his lasting contribution. A portion of the funds will also be used to provide a small bonus for the foundation’s staff and to assist several refugee families displaced by the Thailand–Cambodia border conflict with food support.

The family is grateful that Irvin lived a long and productive life and that his legacy will live on, not only with his own family, but with his extended family – the staff and children at Spitler School.

Up For the Miller Donation Challenge?

Thank you to Mark and Jean Miller who for the third year in a row have committed to match our December donations, dollar of dollar up to $10,000. We are well on our way to meeting their challenge. Per Mark and Jean’s request a portion of those funds have been used to provide tuition assistance for one of our graduates who is pursuing a nursing degree at the local university. It’s not too late for you to double your donation!

NOTE: Spitler School Foundation can receive donations of appreciated stocks, bonds, and IRA required minimum distributions, which may provide significant tax advantages for some donors. Please contact us for additional information.

Thanks & Wishes

As we bring 2025 to a close, we send our heartfelt thanks to our donor family for their loyal and continuing funding of the SSF-supported students and staff. Hundreds of deserving children are receiving a basic education because of your generosity.

From the Spitler School Foundation students, staff, and family, we send our very best wishes for a Happy New Year!