Student Spotlight: Maria

The Juvenile Court and Community Schools student representative on the San Diego County Board of Education in June was Maria, a freshman at Escondido Community School.

Despite facing many challenges, Maria has persevered and maintained her grades during her time at Innovations Academy and Escondido Community School.

She’s grateful to the staff at both schools who have helped her feel seen, heard, and supported. At the board meeting, Maria highlighted Ms. Mariah, social work intern, for her guidance.

“She didn’t judge me for what I was going through. She has been there for me, and when I told her about what was going on in my life, she cared,” Maria said. “Whenever I was struggling, she would talk to me and be supportive about it. She is kind and caring. I would talk to her and my whole mood would change.

Principal Cindy Stallo shared that Maria loves art, especially drawing and sketching, enjoys writing and learning about history, and hopes to one day become an emergency medical technician (EMT).

“Maria is someone who takes advantage of the help given to her and has a way of making people feel valued,” Stallo said.

Maria advises other students to ask for and accept help and persevere through hardship.

“Keep your head up. Things might be hard but the more you keep going, ask for help," Maria said. "You might not want to at first, but it will help you."

Maria shared during the meeting that a move to Escondido to live with her sister provided a more stable environment that allowed her to focus more on school. She personally thanked Ms. Mariah as well as her parents, sister, and school community for their support. 

As part of its efforts to highlight transformational learning experiences for students, the San Diego County Board of Education recognizes a student from Juvenile Court and Community Schools at its regular monthly meeting.