Staff Spotlight: Maria Campiz Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

This week, Vallejo City Unified School District's Hispanic Heritage Month spotlight series features Maria Campiz, office manager at Vallejo Charter School. Campiz said her favorite part of the job is seeing all the kids every day.

Campiz's parents immigrated from Michoacán, Mexico, making her a first-generation Mexican American, and it's the culture, food, and traditional customs of that heritage she loves most. For Campiz, the phrase "Unidos, somos más" captures that spirit well. "Together, our presence is greater," she said.

At home, Campiz speaks both Spanish and English. That connection to her roots is part of why, when asked what destination in her family's home country she wishes everyone could experience, she pointed simply to Mexico itself. Experiencing the people, places, and food anywhere in the country, she said, can change one's perspective on many aspects of life.

Growing up, Campiz looked up to actress Salma Hayek. As a fellow Mexican American, Hayek showed her that a successful future is possible through hard work and dedication.

Campiz's advice for VCUSD students this year is to embrace every opportunity and learn as much as possible. Sometimes, she said, the little things have the biggest impact in life.

One tradition she's proud to carry forward is cooking Mexican dishes, which she said always brings family and friends together. Campiz said she wants more people to understand how central family is to her culture. Bringing people together, especially over food, is a common practice and a source of joy. "We create family with anyone," she said, regardless of background.

Understanding Spanish has allowed Campiz to build relationships with students and families throughout her career, something she said continues to motivate her to stay in education. Her parents encouraged her to embrace their customs while also learning those of her new country, giving her, she said, the best of both worlds. She credits her parents' decision to come to the United States and the sacrifices they made with opening the door to her education and career. "They have been my motivation to pursue my career goals," she said.