VOTE
GRISELDA
RUIZ
Santa Barbara County Board of Education
Trustee Area 5
A voice for students, families, and our community.
I’m Griselda Ruiz, a local business owner, mother, and proud product of Santa Maria’s schools, running for Santa Barbara County Board of Education Trustee Area 5.
As a parent and lifelong member of this community, I understand the importance of strong educational opportunities and of having families’ voices represented at the county level. I’m running to bring a parent’s perspective, professional problem-solving, and a commitment to accountability, transparency, and collaboration to the County Board. I believe every student deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and develop their unique talents, and every family deserves to be heard.
meet
GRISELDA
RUIZ
Santa Maria has always been home to me. I grew up here, attended local schools, and later left the area to attend California State University Channel Islands, where I earned my Bachelor in Business Management. I chose to return home because this is where I wanted to live, raise my family, and build my future.
Today, I’m a local business owner and mother of two school-aged children. As a parent, I experience our education system firsthand and understand the importance of listening to families, supporting educators, and recognizing both what is working and where we can do better.
My professional experience has taught me to identify opportunities, solve problems, and turn ideas into meaningful results. As a bicultural and bilingual member of our diverse community, I also understand the importance of making sure people feel heard, valued, and included.
I chose to return home because this is where I wanted to live, raise my family, and build my future. I hope one day this community will be home to my grandchildren, too. That is why I believe the decisions we make today should create stronger opportunities for generations to come.
- Griselda Ruiz
My areas
of commitment:
Every student deserves access to high-quality education and the support necessary to reach their potential.
01
Accountability
& Transparency
Responsible leadership starts with accountability. I will advocate for transparency in county education decisions and responsible stewardship of public resources. Families deserve clear information, thoughtful decision-making, and leadership that keeps students' interests at the center.
02
Community Trust &
Collaboration
Strong schools depend on strong relationships. I will work to strengthen connections among families, educators, students, community organizations, and the County Board. Every community has different experiences and needs, and meaningful collaboration starts with listening.
03
Equity & Access
Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. I will advocate for educational opportunities, resources, and support that help students reach their potential. I will also work to ensure families who have historically felt overlooked have a meaningful voice in the decisions affecting their children.
04
Preparing Future Leaders
Our students deserve opportunities to discover what they can become. I will support efforts that help students develop their talents, explore their interests, and prepare for college, careers, and life beyond the classroom.
I’m running because I want to bring my experiences as a parent, business owner, community member, and problem-solver to the County Board of Education and help build strong educational opportunities for the next generation.
- Griselda Ruiz
Connect with me!