Maria Guardado: Authenticity Opens the Door to Success for Many Students
by Sandy Chase
Sandy Chase is a writer, poet, mentor, and avid nonprofit volunteer. In the contributed article below, she writes about the growth of the Mentoring Program at the Education Foundation of Sarasota County.
Maria Guardado, Riverview High School Resiliency Success Coach and Mentoring Manager, brings the Education Foundation’s mission to life every day. Since stepping into the manager role in March, she has worked diligently with students to enhance their learning and prepare for their future. She says the gratitude she receives from students and families strengthens not only the Education Foundation, but the entire community.
President/CEO Jennifer Vigne says:
Through her work as one of our resiliency coaches, Maria has shown an extraordinary ability to connect with students and help them overcome the barriers that might have stood in the way of graduation. Her compassion, consistency, and belief in their potential have earned their trust. Maria’s dedication to guiding students through life’s challenges makes her a natural choice to expand her impact as our new mentoring manager.
A recent social event celebrated National Mentoring Day—highlighting the mentors and volunteers who play a significant role. Maria reflected “The social was a great opportunity to recognize and appreciate our mentors. It’s crucial that they feel valued and seen for the time they put into this work. Many enjoyed being able to connect and share stories with one another.”
Given Maria’s experience, expertise, and dedication, she encapsulates how the Education Foundation strives to improve our student population while bolstering our community.
- What drew you to the Education Foundation and how long have you worked there?
I’ve been with the Education Foundation for three years. Before that time, I worked in addiction recovery. Through that experience, I had realized that many clients could’ve benefited from support much earlier in life, especially during high school. That realization inspired me to shift my focus to working with youth. I wanted to help students see that they aren’t defined by difficult times in high school. The right guidance and support can help our adolescents overcome challenges.
- Tell us about your Education Foundation coaching role.
My students’ stories stand out in their own unique way. I measure success not just by outcomes but by the growth and confidence I see in each student.
- What does the Ed Foundation mentoring program look like? What do you intend to change?
The mentoring program, which began in 2019, connects students with caring adults who can provide guidance, encouragement, and real-world perspective. It’s designed to help students build confidence, set goals, and feel supported both academically and personally.
My goal is to expand our mentor pool, increase mentor training and engagement opportunities, and create more structured ways for mentors and mentees to connect in person.
- How has the mentoring manager role grown since you’ve been involved?
I’ve seen tremendous potential for growth, both in participation and in the overall effect we can have on students. My focus is to strengthen systems, build stronger relationships with community partners, and ensure that every mentor feels equipped and valued.
The program has become more streamlined, which means we can add more structure and monthly activities. Our mentors have received training and completed mandated reporter certification. We’ve already held two in-person meetings and one virtual session.
My immediate goal is to ensure that current mentors are matched with the right mentees. I also want to ensure our mentors feel valued and appreciated. Maintaining regular communication is a key priority.
- What are some of the reasons students seek out a mentor?
Students often seek mentors for guidance, motivation, and for someone who’ll listen without judgment. Many students are looking for help in setting goals, building confidence, and finding future direction. A mentor gives them a safe space to dream bigger, seeing what’s possible.
Often, parents reach out to find a mentor for their child. Reasons vary: sometimes it’s to help build confidence, set goals, or provide an additional layer of support. Other times, a resiliency success coach makes the referral, citing that a student could benefit from having that consistent, encouraging connection.
- What are your challenges and rewards as the manager?
One of the biggest challenges is balancing logistics, scheduling, matching, and communication, while ensuring every interaction stays personal and meaningful. But rewards outweigh challenges. Seeing students grow, hearing mentors share how much they’ve learned from their mentees, and witnessing the transformation when someone feels supported—make the experience worthwhile.
- How is the mentoring program diverse? Is virtual mentoring available?
Our mentors and mentees are of various backgrounds, ages, and life experiences, adding meaning to the relationships meaningful. We’ll make virtual mentoring available to meet a mentee’s request should anyone ask.
If you’re interested in becoming a mentor, or if you’re a student looking to be matched with a mentor, connect directly with Maria at mguardado@edfoundationsrq.org