3: Making Room at the Table: A Latina Leader’s Journey

I was born into a proud Mexican‑American family where faith, hard work, and perseverance were not just values; they were a way of life. My parents, who were immigrants from Mexico, had limited formal education, always stressed the importance of school and reminded us that education was the key to opportunity. As a young Latina growing up in Texas, I was often underestimated, overlooked, or encouraged to “blend in.” But my culture gave me strength, and my family gave me purpose. School wasn’t always easy. I was often one of three Latinas in advanced classes and had to find my voice in spaces that weren’t built for girls like me. But I pressed forward. I became a bilingual teacher, then a campus leader, and eventually served as the first Latina Superintendent of Schools in Spring ISD. My 37-year journey in education, from the classroom to the boardroom, has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. To aspiring Latinas: You do not need to choose between your culture and your career, your culture is your superpower. Be proud of your roots, speak with conviction, and never apologize for leading with heart. You will face doubts, from others and from within, but trust that you belong. Surround yourself with mentors who lift you, and once you rise, reach back and lift others. Leadership is not about titles; it’s about service, integrity, and impact. Our communities need more Latinas at the table, shaping policy, breaking barriers, and inspiring the next generation.