As a lifelong National City resident, she attended Olivewood Elementary, National City Junior High School, and Sweetwater High School. As a parent who raised her children in the community, Maria understands the daily realities and aspirations of South Bay families. Her advocacy began as PTA President, where she advocated for parent empowerment and ensured every student had the resources to thrive.
For over twenty years, Maria has been a tireless voice for fiscal transparency and equitable opportunities, working alongside teachers and community leaders to strengthen our public education system.
She has served for 12 years as a National School District Trustee, a CSBA Delegate, and an advocate in Sacramento and Washington, D.C., turning that advocacy into results.
As a trusted steward of public resources, she has championed the passage of Measure N and Measure HH. Through these bonds, campuses were transformed with a focus on safety, modernization, and inclusivity, including redesigning all district playgrounds with state-of-the-art fields and full accessibility for students with disabilities, ensuring every child is included.
Under her leadership, the district earned national and state recognition: Environmental Leadership: Earned 2026 California Green Ribbon Schools Green Achiever status, one of only two districts statewide. Academic Excellence: Achieved year-over-year growth. Health & Wellness: Named the nation’s first elementary-only Heart Safe School district, with 100% of schools earning Platinum and Gold PBIS honors and 90% named America’s Healthiest Schools. She is ready to bring this proven record of dedicated, student-centered leadership to the Sweetwater Union High School District to ensure high academic standards, modern facilities, safe environments, and empowered families.
Your Voice Strengthens Our Campaign
Join Maria's neighborhood teams to ensure every South Bay family knows their vote matters. Together, we can build a stronger future for our schools.