Maria Vazquez is an SSN teacher at Skyline High School, where she has the privilege of working with a wonderful group of students. She brings over 30 years of experience in special education, holds a master’s degree in the field, and specializes in supporting students with intellectual disabilities.

With 26 years dedicated to special education, Maria has spent much of her career in Mexico. There, she worked for 9 years as a speech therapist and for 10 years supporting students with various disabilities in general education settings across preschool, elementary, and middle school. In her last three years in Mexico, Maria served as the principal of a special education service that assisted students with unique needs in integrating into primary schools.

In 2017, Maria moved to the USA due to her husband’s job. She initially worked as a paraprofessional in special education for three years before earning her teaching license. This is now her fifth year with SVVSD as a special education teacher.

Maria is passionate about helping students discover their strengths and feel empowered in the classroom. She focuses on hands-on learning and life skills, incorporating community outings, social skills training, and personalized support to help each student build independence and self-confidence.

Outside of school, Maria enjoys crocheting, walking her dogs, riding her bicycle, and traveling with her husband. Now empty nesters, they consider their two pets their “babies.” She is excited to continue supporting her students as they work toward their goals.