Maria grew up in the Bay Area and studied Psychology and Education at UC Davis. She worked with youth as an Instructional Aide, Reading and Math Interventionist, and 5th-grade teacher before moving to San Diego. Maria believes every student is capable of growth and is dedicated to supporting her students wherever they are in their educational journey.

As a lifelong learner herself, she strives to create a compassionate, creative, and investigative environment for her students.

In her spare time, Maria enjoys crocheting, reading, and volunteering in her community.