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Maria Benzon
NONPARTISAN
Maria Benzon is running for ISD Trustee.
Personal background
Maria is originally from Manila, Philippines and grew up in Houston. She has a bachelor's degree in mathematics and a master's degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Texas at Austin, and a Ph.D. in educational psychology from the University of Houston. She lives in the Bellaire area with her daughter.
Professional background
Maria is currently assistant director of assessment for the Universty of Houston-downtown. She previously worked as an assistant principal at Southwest Schools, a math teacher in San Antonio ISD, taught at Lawson Middle School, and served as a math specialist for the Madison High School feeder pattern. She also worked as a professor at the University of Houston and was an assistant principal focused on special education students and English language learners.
Political background
Maria Benzon previously ran for this seat in 2021 but did not win.
School Curriculum
Supports reducing the emphasis on standardized testing and increasing focus on projects and creative problem solving.
Believes decisions about Houston’s schools should be made by those who "know our students best," not by an "unelected board of managers with no accountability to the public."
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School Facilities & Resources
Supports funding schools based on enrollment rather than attendance to avoid losing funding when students miss class for illness or appointments.
Believes funding should prioritize classrooms over "bloated administrator salaries and bonuses."
Believes students need "engaging instruction, strong relationships, and classrooms led by certified, supported teachers."
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Student Wellbeing
As of October 13, 2025, Maria Benzon’s website did not contain information on this issue.
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Teachers
Supports addressing the teacher shortage by improving pay, benefits, and professional development.
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Access to Education
As of October 13, 2025, Maria Benzon’s website did not contain information on this issue.
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