Maria Teresa Perez

Principal, Blessed Trinity School, Miami Springs

Born in Perth Amboy, N.J., Maria Teresa Perez attended Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Elementary School there; she then obtained a degree in elementary education from Florida International University, a master’s in primary education from Nova Southeastern University, and a certificate in educational leadership and administration from St Thomas University

Taught in the public school system from 1989 to 2000, when she started at Blessed Trinity School in Miami Springs as an English and history teacher; she is beginning her seventh year as principal

Is a member of Blessed Trinity Parish, where she lectors and is part of the Emmaus Women’s Group

Has been married for 23 years and has two daughters at Our Lady of Lourdes Academy in Miami

Favorite quote: “Give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)