I am running for the PVUSD Governing Board because I believe every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, every educator deserves support, and every family deserves a voice.
My commitment to public education is deeply personal.
As the oldest of eight siblings, I grew up in a home impacted by addiction, abuse, and instability. At a young age, I took on responsibilities no child should have to carry. Everything changed when a school psychologist recognized that my siblings and I needed help and connected us with the resources that ultimately changed our lives.
That experience showed me the life-changing impact educators, counselors, and school support staff can have on a child’s future.
After being adopted by a family member, I was given the opportunity to thrive. With the support of teachers, mentors, and family, I graduated high school with both my diploma and a cosmetology license, providing a pathway to independence and a successful career.
For more than 12 years, I built a career in the beauty industry, working with salon franchise owners in both the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and Indianapolis. My work included hiring and developing teams, managing budgets, training employees, improving operations, marketing businesses, and helping new locations open successfully. These experiences taught me leadership, accountability, strategic planning, and fiscal responsibility—skills that are directly applicable to serving on a governing board.
Today, my husband and I are raising our son in the community we proudly call home. As a small business owner, parent, and community advocate, I understand the importance of listening, collaboration, and finding practical solutions that serve the best interests of families.
My dedication to PVSchools extends beyond words.
From October 2024 through October 2025, I served as a Kitchen Manager with PVSchools, working directly in our schools and gaining firsthand insight into both the challenges and opportunities facing our district. During that time, I became actively involved in strengthening our schools and advocating for students, families, and employees.
My community involvement includes:
• Serving on the Steering Committee for the Indian Bend Elementary rebuild
• Serving on the 2024–2025 Student Handbook Committee
• Helping identify and address AHERA compliance notification concerns to ensure staff received appropriate information, training, and awareness regarding their rights and responsibilities
• Volunteering with the Desert Cove PTO while providing classroom materials and financial support for students and teachers
• Adopting two neighborhood streets to help keep our community clean and welcoming
• Helping plant more than 80 trees throughout the Paradise Valley Oasis neighborhood to improve our environment and quality of life
I believe our schools should be focused on academic excellence, transparency, accountability, and preparing students for success—whether that path leads to college, a trade, military service, entrepreneurship, or the workforce.
As a parent, I want more for my child.
As a community member, I want more for our students.
As a candidate, I am committed to putting students first, supporting educators, engaging families, and ensuring that every decision made by the Governing Board reflects the best interests of the entire PVUSD community.
Together, we can build stronger schools, create greater opportunities, and prepare every student for a successful future.
I would be honored to earn your vote and your support.
Jayee Tiffany Ruiz
Candidate for PVUSD Governing Board
