By As the school year comes to a close, Veronica Mata is reflecting on her journey and looking forward to a new chapter in her career. Mata, who is currently wrapping up her sixth year as a paraprofessional with Houston Independent School District (HISD), will soon make the transition into the classroom as a certified teacher. The 2025-26 school year will mark her debut as a second-grade teacher, a role she’s been working toward for years.
Mata is set to graduate in May with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Texas Woman’s University (TWU), thanks to her participation in the Houston Grow Your Own initiative. For her, the program has been transformative—both personally and professionally. While continuing to fulfill her responsibilities as a full-time employee of HISD and mother, she also maintained a full academic courseload.
“This was the most significant opportunity to make my dream of teaching come true,” Mata shared. “Becoming certified has changed the direction of my career completely,” as reported by the Texas Woman’s University.
The shift isn’t just in title—her new role brings a substantial salary boost. Certified teachers in the district can earn up to 30% more than their current paraprofessional roles, and in some cases, double. Beyond the financial benefits, Mata points to the deep sense of accomplishment that comes with her achievement.
Her journey illustrates the core purpose of the Grow Your Own partnership between TWU and HISD: cultivating a diverse and committed teacher workforce by supporting individuals who already serve in school communities. Since launching in Fall 2023 with a $500,000 grant, the program has helped nearly 100 teaching assistants pursue their degrees and certifications.
Mata is among the first to complete the program, graduating alongside fellow participants Maria Sarmiento and Veronica Soliz. Meanwhile, 59 HISD students remain on track to earn degrees in early childhood or elementary education, with a total of 90 students participating across TWU’s broader Grow Your Own partnerships throughout Texas.
Veronica Mata’s story is not just about professional growth—it’s about perseverance, community investment, and the power of believing in one’s potential. As she prepares to take her place at the front of the classroom, she becomes a symbol of what’s possible when opportunity, support, and determination align. Her success lights the path for many others still walking it.
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