LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

« Return to Nominee List

Michelle Ruiz

Position: ELL Teacher
School: Cherokee Elementary School
School District: Pascagoula Gautier School District
City, State: Pascagoula, MS

Support Michelle Leave a comment Get Updates

Michelle Ruiz was nominated by an anonymous colleague.

Although Mrs. Ruiz’ official title is English Language Learner assistant, her influence extends throughout her school. She works tirelessly, sometimes at a moment’s notice, to break down language barriers between students, teachers, and parents. Her keen ability to identify areas of concern and help students improve their academic performance reaches far beyond data and curriculum. She is driven by her desire to ensure everyone has the opportunity to flourish. Mrs. Ruiz accomplishes this arduous task by cultivating sincere relationships. Her mild-mannered, honest, positive, altruistic personality inspires those she comes in contact with to seek new ways to become better versions of themselves.

"We are undoubtedly blessed to have Michelle Ruiz as part of our Cherokee family," said her nominator.

Comments (3)

Siobhan Cochran Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Ruiz is truly a life changer. She loves her students and they love her! She always collaborates with her teachers to find out the most beneficial way to help her students. Mrs. Ruiz takes initiative to do whatever is needed to grow her students. When she is in the classroom, she helps not only her EL students, but all students. She is always helpful when it comes to communicating with parents and scheduling conferences. Mrs. Ruiz is an asset to our school and she is deserving of this award!

ALLISON WEBB Posted over a year ago

It is true, Mrs. Ruiz’s positive influence is felt throughout the school. Students are eager to interact with her because they can feel that she wants the best for them. She communicates her expectations clearly and follows through with mother-like support, accolades, and correction when necessary. As her co-worker and friend, I look forward to our interactions. Not only is she extremely patient when I ask her for an impromptu Spanish lesson, she is always honest and leaves me feeling encouraged- despite the situation. This recognition is well deserved. Michelle is indeed a life changer. ??

Jennifer Walley Posted over a year ago

Michelle is such a wonderful teacher. She is patient with all her students and strives to help them in whatever way that she can. As a colleague she listens to what we need of her in order to help the students become successful. I don’t know what we would do without her. I am proud to have her as a colleague and friend.