Maria Teresa Ruiz is an exemplary leader and innovator in early childhood STEAM education and is highly deserving of recognition as a STEAM Hero for the West Office of Head Start. With a Master’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies & Child Development and a STEM Educator Certification, she brings deep expertise and research-based practices to our organization. She currently leads our organization’s STEAM initiatives, collaborating with the Stanislaus County Office of Education to intentionally integrate STEAM practices into early learning classrooms. Through this partnership, she has expanded access to high-quality, developmentally appropriate STEAM experiences for young children across our programs. Maria Teresa, along with our Scool Readiness Team, is leading a dynamic coaching cohort that supports over 50 coaches and education coordinators. This cohort provides a structured series of professional learning sessions focused on identifying effective STEAM practices and equipping coaches to bring those strategies directly to the teachers and classrooms they support. Her leadership ensures that STEAM is not an isolated initiative, but a sustainable, system-wide practice embedded in curriculum, coaching, and school readiness efforts. Her vision, expertise, and commitment to building educator capacity continue to positively impact staff, children, and families, making her an outstanding nominee for STEAM Hero recognition.