She has been a teacher for over twenty-four years and has received several recognitions including 2013 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching finalist, 2008 and 2012 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching nominee, Fulbright Teacher exchange program scholar (Uruguay) in 2013, and 2016 Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program (Mexico). As part of the award Mayra had the opportunity to conduct educational research for three months in Mexico. Mayra holds a master’s Degree in Bilingual Education and a Master’s Degree in Leadership and Administration. She resides in Illinois with her family.