ABOUT ARIEL GRAY

I govern the way I live my life, with integrity, mutual respect, and compassion.

MY BACKGROUND

Born and raised in Northern California, I moved to Capitola with my family in 2012. We stumbled across this tiny paradise and have had the incredible joy of making this community our home. My kids met lifelong friends at Main Street elementary school, started their sports careers with Capitola-Soquel Little League, and are thriving high schoolers thanks to the foundational education they received from SUESD.

When I am not driving my daughter to dance class or watching my son play baseball or basketball, I can be found walking New Brighton State Beach, enjoying Food Truck Fridays at Monterey Park, or counting down the days until Mijo’s opens again.

Professionally, I work in operations for a consulting company. My work requires critical thinking, attention to detail, and both short and long term planning skills, all of which has translated well to my role as SUESD Trustee. I have a master’s degree from UCLA’s School of Public Health that came in handy these last six years.

Why School Board?

Several years ago I put some thought into articulating the values that I want to be known for and the causes that are important to me. What came out of that process was a commitment to integrity, reason, and compassion, and a dedication to putting my time and energy into helping the kids of our community. I was on the Capitola Library Commission, helping to oversee the development of our new library, and I am especially proud of the spaces for children and teens. I’ve been a consistent supporter of Encompass Community Services’ Transition Age Youth Program, CASA of Santa Cruz, and the Tannery World Dance and Cultural Center’s Scholarship Fund.

Although I am an introvert who is happiest doing work behind the scenes, when there was an opening on the SUESD Board of Trustees midterm I was inspired to put my name in for consideration and ended up receiving the appointment. Being a Trustee, and most recently as Board President, has allowed me to bring my skills and values together in direct service to the kids in our community. After two and half years on the Board, I have a record of governing with integrity, thoughtfulness, and a commitment to seeing every student thrive.

Something that stands out to me about Capitola compared to other places I have lived is how our community looks out for one another, and how we especially look out for each other’s kids. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve on the SUESD Board of Trustees. You can contact me at grayisthewaysuesd2026@gmail.com if you have any questions or ideas. I would be honored to earn your vote.