This month, we’re proud to shine the Site Coordinator Spotlight on Ruviselia “Ruvi” Martinez, whose passion, drive, and lived experience are already transforming the landscape at Shuksan Middle School. Since stepping into her role at Shuksan Middle School, Ruviselia “Ruvi” Martinez has brought an energy that is both grounded and transformative. With a natural ability to connect, Ruvi has quickly become a trusted presence in the building—someone students gravitate toward and staff deeply value.
Ruvi’s approach is rooted in empathy and experience. She brings calm confidence to her work, creating a space where students feel seen, supported, and safe. Whether she’s meeting with students one-on-one, checking in between classes, or leading group supports, Ruvi meets each young person where they are—with patience, compassion, and a genuine belief in their potential.
In just a short time, Ruvi has launched student-centered supports that respond directly to the needs she sees every day. She’s built strong relationships, helped re-engage students who were feeling disconnected, and played an important role in encouraging school attendance—work she recently spoke about in Cascadia Daily, where she shared how showing up for school is often one of the hardest and most important steps a student can take. Her insight and advocacy remind us how many barriers some students face just to get through the door, and how critical it is to meet those challenges with care and understanding.
Ruvi’s own story as a Shuksan alum and first-generation high school graduate shapes everything she does. She knows what it’s like to navigate language barriers, housing instability, and immigration-related stress. That lived experience gives her a unique ability to connect with students who might otherwise stay on the margins. Her work is not just about offering support—it’s about helping students feel a sense of belonging and possibility.
Staff at Shuksan have shared how much they appreciate Ruvi’s presence and the way she’s already made a difference. From coordinating resources for families to celebrating student milestones—big and small—Ruvi shows up with heart and purpose every single day. Her leadership is quiet but powerful, and it’s clear she’s exactly where she’s meant to be.
We’re proud to recognize Ruvi Martinez as this month’s Site Coordinator Spotlight. Thank you, Ruvi, for the strength, heart, and lived wisdom you bring to Shuksan Middle School. Your work is already changing lives.