BIOGRAPHY

Maria Gonzales is an experienced early childhood educator with a passion for literacy, creativity, and storytelling. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies with a minor in Education from the University of Houston, and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Sam Houston State University.

Maria has spent 28 years teaching young learners, ages 3–6, at Hinojosa EC/PK Center in Aldine ISD. Over the years, she has served in multiple roles, including ESL teacher, Inclusion Special Education teacher, and Instructional Specialist. She was integral in launching a campus Science Lab followed by a Literacy Lab—both initiatives aimed at enriching early learning through exploration and language.

A graduate of School Literacy and Culture’s second ELLA cohort (2015–2018), Maria now contributes as a member of the Advanced Leadership Seminar and co-seminar leader for Classroom Storytelling. She has also taught Creative Writing Summer Camp for nine years and frequently facilitates professional development workshops at the campus, district, and regional levels.

Maria is dedicated to helping teachers inspire curiosity, foster creativity, and nurture strong personal voices in their students through stories and writing. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, three children, granddaughter, and two cats.