In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, SDoL proudly highlights staff members whose rich cultural backgrounds shape their personal and professional lives. Ruth Scott, a Spanish teacher at Jackson Middle School, whose journey from the Dominican Republic to SDoL reflects her perseverance, cultural pride, and commitment to education.
Born in the Dominican Republic, Ruth Scott’s roots are deeply connected to her Hispanic heritage. “Spanish is my first language, and my heritage is a significant part of who I am,” she shares. With a Dominican mother and an English father, Ruth grew up surrounded by a blend of cultures. Since moving to the U.S. 12 years ago, she’s embraced both challenges and opportunities, including learning a new language and adapting to a different culture.
Her favorite tradition is Día de los Reyes (Three Kings Day), a celebration that holds special meaning for her. “It’s a day filled with family, food, and joy. And of course, I love dancing bachata and merengue,” she adds with a smile.
Ruth’s Hispanic heritage is central to her role as a Spanish teacher. “I realized I could teach what I know best—Spanish—and share my Dominican culture with others.” Her classes are vibrant and engaging, often starting with Spanish music that sets an inclusive and welcoming tone for her students. For Ruth, Hispanic Heritage Month is a meaningful time to reflect on the importance of cultural representation. “It’s a time for us to share our cultures and spread the joy of being proud Hispanics and Latinos.”
Ruth’s path to becoming a teacher at SDoL began as a parent volunteer in her son’s classroom. “I volunteered without knowing any English, but I was determined to help,” she recalls. Inspired by the supportive teachers who helped her along the way, she pursued a career in education. “I wanted to be part of this amazing community and teach students about my culture.”
Starting as a paraprofessional at Martin Elementary, Ruth worked her way up, eventually fulfilling her dream of becoming a Spanish teacher. “It wasn’t easy, but being Latina inspired me to succeed. When I received the email offering me the Spanish teacher position, I told myself, ‘I made it.'”
As a Hispanic educator, Ruth plays a crucial role in connecting students to their cultural roots. “We have many Dominican students at SDoL, and they love seeing a teacher from the same background. It makes them feel seen and valued.” Ruth’s lessons go beyond language; she encourages students to share their own cultural experiences, fostering pride and a sense of belonging. “It’s important for them to know they’re part of a community that celebrates diversity.”
One of Ruth’s biggest challenges when she first arrived in the U.S. was learning English. “I didn’t speak a word of English when I volunteered, but the teachers were incredibly supportive,” she explains. With the help of English classes offered to parents, Ruth was able to overcome this challenge, a journey that has shaped her as an educator.
Reflecting on her time with SDoL, she notes the increased representation of Latino staff in the district. “When I first arrived, there weren’t many Latino staff members. Now, I see more of us working here, and it’s a beautiful change.”
When asked what advice she would give to other Hispanic/Latino staff or students pursuing careers in education, Ruth says, “If you have a dream, go for it. We need more people in education who can share our cultures and help students from all around the world.”
Looking ahead, Ruth hopes the district will continue to support the Hispanic/Latino community by offering English classes for parents, just as it did for her. “It’s essential to help parents connect with their children’s education,” she says.
Ruth’s dream for future generations of Hispanic/Latino students at SDoL is simple yet profound: “I hope they continue learning Spanish and feel proud of their heritage.”
Among her many meaningful memories at SDoL, one stands out—the moment she sat next to her son’s Pre-K teacher, Ms. Venturini, at a district meeting. “At the time, I couldn’t speak English, and now I’m a teacher in the same district, sitting next to her as a colleague. That was an incredible moment.”
SDoL is proud to celebrate the contributions of Ruth Scott during Hispanic Heritage Month. Her dedication to students and her commitment to sharing her culture is a reflection of the vibrant diversity that makes our district stronger.