Maria Almanza

Extended Learning Program Coordinator - Merry Oaks International Academy

Maria is a first-generation Mexican immigrant and native to the Charlotte area. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in May 2019 with a B.S. in Economics, B.A. in Political Science, and a minor in Urban Youth and Communities. Influenced by the awareness of economic barriers, political disengagement, and systemic inequalities, she felt drawn to education as a means of social impact. Since the beginning of her tenure at HMT, Maria has spent summers providing bilingual literacy instruction through nonprofit programming in North and Central Texas. She recently earned a certificate in Nonprofit Career Development through Texas A&M University and OneStar Foundation. Maria’s own love for math started at a CMS elementary school and has driven her to share this enthusiasm for learning to help students see their potential! She hopes to expand her impact with Heart students through thoughtful volunteer support, informed interventions, and strong school relationships.