IDEA San Juan

Soon after, she became Assistant Principal of Instruction (API) at IDEA Edinburg Academy and achieved stellar results for her teachers and students. During her time as an API, she became a certified Trainer of Trainers for the National Institute for Direct Instruction. Starting in 2015, she was a Principal in Residence at IDEA Edinburg, where she continued to thrive as a coach and leader, and soon after was named principal at the Mighty San Juan Saints Academy.

In 2008, she joined IDEA Public Schools as the founding International Baccalaureate English teacher at IDEA College Preparatory in Donna, the Flagship campus. Soon she became a teacher leader at Donna where she served as the Grade Team Leader for the 12th grade team as well as the Content Team Leader for English. In 2012, she was promoted and became the Director of College Counseling at IDEA College Prep Donna, and for 9 years, she continued the legacy of 100% College Matriculation and led her campus in being the first in the district to meet 25% of students attending a top- tiered university in 2017. Maricela has earned 2 Core Value District Awards for her service and dedication to students- Whatever It Takes and Sweating the Small Stuff.

In 2020, she became a Principal in Residence and in 2022 led IDEA College Prep Donna as Interim Principal to ensure students, teachers, and staff maintained focus on student achievement. Most recently Maricela joined the Saints family where she will continue to focus on strong instructional development and school culture.

Maricela currently lives in Donna, Texas with her husband Joaquin and two children, Alyssa (18) and Caleb (12). They enjoy spending time with family and friends, including juggling the many soccer practices and games that come with the children being in club sports.