Long before Mandy Ruiz became an educator, she was inspired by one.
Growing up, Ruiz spent time visiting her great-grandmother, who taught in a one-room schoolhouse in the mountains of West Virginia. Watching her great-grandmother's dedication to her students and community sparked a passion for education that has shaped Ruiz's career for more than 20 years.
Now, Ruiz is bringing that passion to Spring Branch Elementary School (SBE), the district's very first school and a campus with an 80-year legacy of excellence.
"My great-grandmother showed me what it means to love a community through education," Ruiz said. "I am honored to join a school with such a rich history and help continue that legacy for future generations."
Throughout her career as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, assistant director and principal, Ruiz has focused on helping students, educators and families flourish together. She believes the strongest schools are built through Collective Greatness, where every voice matters and collaboration drives success.
As principal, Ruiz is committed to building on SBE's tradition of excellence while ensuring every student feels connected, challenged and excited to learn. She wants students to walk through the school's doors each day feeling proud to be part of the school community.
"The legacy of SBE is woven into the history of the Spring Branch community," Ruiz said. "I'm excited to partner with our students, families and staff to honor that tradition while building an even stronger future together.
Outside of school, Ruiz enjoys camping, hiking and exploring the outdoors with her children. One of her proudest adventures was hiking Guadalupe Peak, the tallest point in Texas, with her son.
For Ruiz, carrying forward Spring Branch Elementary's legacy isn't just about honoring its history. It's about ensuring every student who walks through its doors has the opportunity to create a bright future of their own.