MISSION, Texas (March 5, 2025) - Mia Ruiz, a third-grade student at Waitz Elementary in the Mission Consolidated Independent School District, has established herself as a standout competitor in multiple academic and extracurricular competitions, earning top placements in Spanish and English storytelling, Destination Imagination, and robotics.
Ruiz, who has competed in University Interscholastic League (UIL) meets, secured first-place finishes in both Spanish and English Storytelling events. She also plays a key role in her school’s Destination Imagination team, which emphasizes creative problem-solving and teamwork, and has contributed to a LEGO-based robotics project focused on ocean conservation.
Dedication to Storytelling and UIL Success
Ruiz’s storytelling achievements stem from a disciplined preparation process. At home, her mother helps her memorize passages by reading stories aloud, which Ruiz then recites. At school, she refines her skills through UIL practice sessions.
"Mia has demonstrated an incredible ability to communicate with everyone and is always willing to learn and help others," said Armandina Garcia, Ruiz’s Spanish Storytelling UIL coach. "She was an asset to her peers during UIL practices, modeling her storytelling techniques with enthusiasm."
Her commitment to UIL storytelling extends beyond language barriers. When needed, Ruiz has also competed in English Storytelling, demonstrating adaptability and a strong competitive spirit.
Expanding Skills in Robotics and Creative Problem-Solving
Ruiz’s involvement in Destination Imagination and robotics highlights her ability to collaborate and think critically. In Destination Imagination, she plays a leadership role in keeping her team motivated during challenges.
"When my team gets frustrated, I tell them, ‘Calm down, it’s okay—we’re creating something great,’" Ruiz said.
In robotics, she and her team worked on a LEGO-based project addressing ocean pollution, an initiative designed to raise awareness about environmental responsibility.
A Promising Future
Ruiz’s coach sees her as a strong role model for her peers.
"She won all first-place trophies in both Spanish and English storytelling, proving she is a leader and team player," Garcia said. "Mia has made our campus very proud."
Ruiz, who aspires to be an actress, believes storytelling competitions are preparing her for future opportunities.
“Storytelling is like a performance. You have to memorize the content, and the judges are like the camera,” she said.
Ruiz encourages younger students to explore competitive opportunities within Mission CISD.
“You can do it! Everyone will motivate you, and you’ll have fun,” she said.
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