The City of Lompoc and its surrounding area incorporates a light industrial and rural economic base. The population of approximately 43,500 is ethnically diverse. Clarence Ruth Elementary School was built in 1961. Clarence Ruth Elementary School, located in the western most region of Lompoc, is one of the nine elementary schools in Lompoc Unified School District. Additionally, the district has two middle schools, two comprehensive high schools, one alternative education facility, a continuation high school, an adult education facility, and several Santa Barbara County supervised preschools.

The Clarence Ruth student body of approximately 500 students reflects our ethnically diverse community. The teachers are highly qualified and create an engaging environment. Full time employees include: a school principal, one administrative assistant, one administrative assistant, 24 teachers, and three custodians. In addition, Clarence Ruth has the following part-time employees: a bilingual/home school liaison, a library technician, computer lab technician, four bilingual para-educators, one Transitional Kindergarten para-educator, two Special Education para-educators, two food services workers, four noon duty aides, a school nurse, a health clerk and three support teachers.