Claudia Ruiz is excited for the opportunity to serve the Gilbert students, parents and teachers as Principal this school year. She is passionate about collaborating, communicating, building and nurturing relationships among students, parents and teachers in order to achieve student success. She believes we first must capture a student’s heart in order to be able to help the student grow academically, build their character and integrity. She strives to create a positive learning environment where students feel safe, comfortable, accepted, valued, and respected by their teachers and peers.

Ms. Ruiz believes in maintaining rigor in instruction and setting high expectations for all students while also differentiating instruction in order to ensure we are meeting the needs of every student. The priority in every decision being made is to keep the best interests of students first. She believes every student has the capacity to learn; however, not all students learn in the same way. She believes it is our responsibility as educators to determine and implement the best methods and practices so that each child receives an appropriate and successful education experience.

Ms. Ruiz has worked in Irving ISD for 17 years, previously serving as Assistant Principal, Academic Specialist, Interventionist, Fifth-Grade Bilingual Teacher and Second-Grade Teacher, all at Gilbert Elementary. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies from UT Arlington.

Ms. Ruiz loves spending time with her two children, Alfonso and Bellalor, who are her pride and joy.

It is an honor and privilege for Ms. Ruiz to serve as Principal at Gilbert Elementary.