Maria believes that "to make a difference in the lives of our students, we must go beyond the classroom and work to improve the community and the environment in which they live." Throughout her career, Maria has embodied this belief and has dedicated her life to not only helping children learn in the classroom, but also to improving lives and conditions within our communities. Over the years, Maria has volunteered for the United Farm Workers, the Southwest Voter Registration Project and has devoted much of her life to serving the students and residents of the Northeast San Fernando Valley. 

After graduating from San Fernando Valley State College, Maria started teaching at San Fernando High School in 1969. During her first year, she was recognized as "Intern of the Year" by the Los Angeles Unified School District Internship Program Office.  In 1975, she was hired as a Resource Teacher in the Central Office and soon became District Home Economics Supervisor. She pioneered the Infant Study Program at Ramona, Roosevelt and Locke High Schools. This program continues to offer free childcare for high school age parents as well as provide them with valuable parenting skills.

As an assistant principal, Maria, along with a school nurse, Pam Wagner, established the first three school-based health clinics in LAUSD. The project faced much controversy and was opposed by some conservative organizations and churches. However, Maria knew the importance of providing health care to uninsured students and continued to work tirelessly to gain the support of students and parents. The proof of her efforts is overwhelmingly apparent today with over 40 school-based or school-linked clinics which provide a low cost, accessible form of health care. The demand for these programs continues to grow.

Among her many accomplishments, Maria Reza has distinguished herself as a strong female role model in the community. She has been recognized twice as Woman of the Year, in 1992 by State Senator David Roberti and again in 1998 by State Senator Richard Alarcon.  She was invited to participate in the HOPE (Hispanas Organized for Political Equality) leadership training and this year chaired the Adelante Mujer Conference, giving 300 young women the opportunity to attend career workshops conducted by professional Latinas. 

Maria also has the distinction of being married to my good friend Alex Reza, a retired educator and an extraordinary community activist whom I have had the pleasure of knowing for many years. She is also the mother of three sons, Lance, Roman and David.

Mr. Speaker, Maria has set an admirable example for those who are committed to making a difference in the lives of others. It is with great pride that I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Maria Reza, a woman whose dedication and achievements are a credit to our community.