When Cheryl Ruyle is not teaching a classroom of students at Scotts Valley High School, being the Co-President of the Scotts Valley Education Association, or volunteering in a fundraiser like the one she put a lot of work in for Measure V, the work never stops. Although known for her tireless work in so many community events and projects, it is her work along with other leaders that put the very important measure over the top as it gained an overwhelming victory.
A definitive positive influencer in our community, her love for her family and the community is what she loves most.
Some fun facts about Cheryl…
Before coming to Scotts Valley, where did you live?
I grew up in Fremont in the East Bay, which was a huge and diverse suburb. I moved to San Francisco for college, and then lived in Oakland, Alameda, Lafayette, and finally San Jose as an adult. I moved to Felton from San Jose in 2014 when I bought my first home.
What brought you to Scotts Valley and how long have you lived here?
As a child, I would spend one week every summer camping at New Brighton State Beach. I loved spending this week at the ocean, going to the Boardwalk and Gayle’s, and experiencing the laid-back Santa Cruz lifestyle. Decades later when it came time to settle down, my soon-to-be husband I randomly stumbled upon Felton while on a camping trip. I remember saying to him, “one day, let’s move here!” We never forgot this town. Four years and two children later, we bought a house in Felton after living in the traffic, bustle and pavement of San Jose. Three years after that, we outgrew our Felton home and bought in Scotts Valley when expecting our third daughter.
We’ve been in Scotts Valley for 7 years, and in this county for a decade. We moved to Scotts Valley because of the amazing schools, close-knit community feel, and proximity to the forests and beaches. “From tree to sea” should be our motto!
What do you love most about living here?
The community is what I love the most. Every where I go, I run into someone I know. This makes me feel connected to people, which is so important in a time where a lot of society feels disconnected to each other. Scotts Valley has retained this quality despite changing times, and that’s something to be celebrated. The other thing I love is that I get to teach where I live. I love seeing my students around town, either at their jobs or out in the community. I feel like I know them much better, and I love being connected with their parents.
And lastly…it is simply beautiful here! Driving down Scotts Valley Drive with the view of the green mountains or hiking amongst redwood giants and through Glenwood…it doesn’t get much better than that!
Please describe what drives and motivates you to do more for others and for the people of Scotts Valley.
I feel it’s my responsibility as a community member to serve others in what ever way I can, and however much I can. This was instilled in me as young child watching my parents’ involvement in schools, church, and extracurriculars. The Jesuit/ Catholic education I had also emphasized the joy that comes with public service, so I genuinely love being involved in Scotts Valley. It’s fun to meet new people and connect with others who also want to better our community. When there’s a need, I think “what can I do?”
Sometimes, I can’t do much, and sometimes I can do a lot, and both are okay. I try my best with my capacity in that moment. I’m always motivated to help our youth in this town. As a teacher, students are my primary focus. I will do anything to improve their education, their school experience, their opportunities, and their livelihood. I want them to be able to visualize a future for themselves, hopefully in Scotts Valley. They’re our upcoming leaders of this incredibly special town!