Maria Meza De La Vega is a visionary leader in the field of public education and has made remarkable change in the education system of Ravenswood School District. As Superintendent, Maria was challenged to raise the ranks of a failing district in San Mateo County. Under her guidance, the district has now turned the corner and recently celebrated its first school to break the 800 point barrier in API scores. Two more schools are now following within a few dozen points of reaching the goal. Maria also led the district in restructuring the education system to provide inclusive education for disabled students. Through her leadership, the schools in the Ravenswood School District are beginning to realize significant academic gains which will soon result in the removal of Federal oversight. Maria has not only made an impact to students, but to other leaders of the school district. She has worked to encourage, mentor and promote women, particularly women of color, into leadership roles in the school system. Her outstanding dedication to the education system has impacted both students and adults and will continue to create future leaders for the County in years to come.
