When it comes to the future of Houston ISD, experience matters.
I’m Maria Benzon, and I’m running for HISD District V Trustee. As an education leader, data expert and HISD parent, I’m ready to fight for our schools, students, and future. I want to help end the state takeover, rebuild trust, spend smarter and ensure access to an engaging, equitable, and high-quality education for every child.
For more than 25 years, I have helped shape Houston classrooms -teaching kids, leading schools, and training a generation of science and math educators. As a teacher, district specialist, assistant principal, and professor with a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology, I’ve dedicated my career to building strong, student-centered schools where educators thrive and children succeed.
I’m a proud HISD graduate, HISD parent, and active community leader. At Condit Elementary, I’ve served as a Girl Scout leader, Odyssey of the Mind coach, and Room Parent; I coach youth volleyball at the Bellaire Rec Center. As President of Bellaire Young Mothers, I’ve worked to connect families and build community.
Like you, I’ve watched with alarm as the state-appointed superintendent undermined and weakened our district. I've spoken out about the inadequate curriculum, disrespect and firing of beloved teachers and principals, misuse of taxpayer dollars, and manipulation of data at the expense of our students.
We are stronger than this takeover. I believe in public schools that prioritize learning, nurture creativity, and uplift the community. Every child deserves a school where they feel safe, supported, and inspired—and together, we can reclaim that vision.
We must organize, mobilize, and vote. And when we win, we must be ready—not just to stop the harm, but to heal, rebuild, and lead.
Let’s reclaim HISD—together.
š³ļø Check if you can vote in HISD District V—enter your name, then click your voter #.