Hello!
My name is Erasmo Ruiz and I am running to be your district 2 Bethel School Board Director. A proud graduate of the public school system and first-generation college graduate — raised by immigrant farm working parents from Mexico. I understand deeply how a supportive public education can improve a person’s life. To me, education is the great equalizer — as well as a pathway for being a part of and achieving the American dream.
Why I am running?
As your next Bethel School Board Director, I will work at the local, state and federal levels to obtain increased funding for our school district – in hopes of not increasing property tax – so that our student’s receive the quality K-12 education that they deserve. In addition to strong, bold, independent minded leadership I will reach out with an open door policy to encourage and listen to all my constituents; students, parents, and teachers. I will also be a proactive school district leader; as well as bring my skills of relationship and partnership building with businesses to create an abundance of career opportunities for our students. I own a home in this school district — and this is where I want to build my family.
My issue platform:
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Fully funded K-12 schools.
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Supporting teachers to thrive.
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Safety for all children.
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Implementing and expanding dual language education programs.
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Expanding access for the Running Start Program.
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Creating career opportunities for our students.
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No cost school meals for our students.
Education and leadership:
I graduated from Portland State University earning a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice and a Master’s degree in Education. In 2013 I served as a high school student success advocate in Portland, Oregon — and between 2015 and 2017 I taught English as a second language, social studies and natural science to elementary school aged children in Madrid, Spain. For the last 6 years I have worked in social services and since 2019 I have worked as a social worker, agency affiliated counselor/mental health professional in the foster care system. In 2022 I was appointed by the Pierce County, WA executive as a commissioner for immigrant and refugee affairs — and in early 2023 I was elected second vice chair of the WA State 2nd legislative district Democrats. I am also a precinct committee officer for the 2nd legislative district and a member of the Bethel School District Career and Technical Education General Advisory Committee.