Ruby Jeanine Batiste – A Beacon of Light in Education
On a typical Thursday morning, my inbox pinged with a notification. A response to my email interview had arrived from none other than Ruby Jeanine Batiste, an inspiring force in the world of education. Born and bred in San Antonio, Texas, Batiste is a seasoned educator with over three decades of experience in the Texas school systems. Currently, she is the Deputy Chief of Staff in Crowley Independent School District, and beyond her professional commitments, Batiste is a successful entrepreneur, wife, and mother. “I’m committed to assisting people enhance their quality of life through education and self-care,” she shares, pointing to her dual role as an educator and the owner of Nine Bath and Body Products, LLC.
Raised in a nurturing environment rooted in faith, love, and service, Batiste was surrounded by hardworking parents and a large blended family. Her father, an entrepreneur, and her mother, a retired teacher with forty years of experience, instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep respect for education. “My upbringing was filled with love and encouragement,” Batiste recalls. “My parents worked hard to create a home where service to others and hard work were paramount.” This reverence for education runs deep in the Batiste lineage. Inspired by her mother’s passion for education and a family rich with educators who broke barriers for African Americans in their communities, Batiste felt honored to follow in their footsteps.
Batiste’s philosophy on teaching is profound: “Education is the key to generational success and opportunities. Literacy and exposure to high-quality education not only benefit current students, but it positively impacts the family and future generations of the student.”
Despite her successes, Batiste’s journey has not been without challenges – challenges that were often amplified due to her identity as a black woman. She shares, “I’ve often felt ignored or overlooked because of my gender.” But she has never let these obstacles deter her.
“The moments of triumph that stand out to me are when I’ve taught struggling students how to read, and when I’ve managed to encourage fellow educators to stay committed to the children we support,” she shares with a sense of pride.
Reflecting on her impact as a black woman educator, Batiste believes in the power of representation. “My work has and will continue to allow students and fellow educators to see that they can accomplish their goals by practicing goal setting and working towards them.”
Her advice to other educators? “Build quality relationships with others, including students, parents, colleagues, and stakeholders. See the humanity in the most challenging individuals and find a way to allow them to experience success through your advocacy.”
Beyond her roles as an educator and entrepreneur, Batiste is also a contributor to the anthology “Centering Our Voices.” The book captures the experiences and brilliance of black women educators, and Batiste’s chapter delves into her journey of finding her own voice and using it for advocacy. “My chapter takes you through the journey of me finding my voice and using it to advocate not only for myself but also for the most vulnerable individuals in our society.” Batiste wants readers to take away an understanding that advocacy and courageous conversations can be done diplomatically.
Batiste shares, “My hope is that the book serves as a resource for fellow educators and aspiring educators, attracting more individuals to become educators and helping to retain them.”
Readers wishing to connect with Batiste or order a signed copy of “Centering Our Voices” can visit her website www.customblendsby9.com.
Ruby Jeanine Batiste’s story is a testament to the power of persistence, representation, and the transformative potential of education. Her journey, passion, and commitment inspire students and educators alike, making a difference that will echo through generations.
