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TEAM MEMBERS

Mari Harris, Ed.D.

Director of Education Programs, University Extension

Dr. Harris oversees the Teacher Preparation Program (TPP) preparing single subject and multiple subject candidates for a preliminary teaching credential. In addition, Dr. Harris is an instructor for several TPP courses; Foundations of Teaching and Project Based Learning (PBL). Dr. Harris received her BA and clear multiple subject teaching credential from California State University, Sacramento. Furthermore, Dr. Harris is a graduate of Mills College in Oakland, California where she received her Masters in Staff Development, Clear Administrative Credential and Doctorate in Educational Leadership. She has more than 25 years in K-12 education as principal, vice-principal, site instructional coordinator and teacher. Dr. Harris taught master’s courses and doctorate courses at Shanghai Normal University in Shanghai, China. She is a life -long learner and an advocate for 21^st Century Culturally Relevant Teaching (CRT). Dr. Harris is passionate about preparing teachers to meet the diverse student population in the Central Valley, and the state of California.

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
-Nelson Mandela

Marissa Lopez, M.A.

Associate Director, Teacher Preparation Program, University Extension

m lopez350@ucmerced.edu

Marissa Luna Lopez is a native valley resident and attended school in both Winton and Merced. She graduated from Merced High School, Merced College, and CSU Stanislaus, then went to work for the Merced County Office of Education as a special education teacher for 4 years. After that, she taught English, was a District Librarian, and taught 2nd grade over the course of 12 years for Planada Elementary School District. She transitioned to UC Merced as the Associate Director of Teacher Preparation after being a part-time instructor. She enjoys preparing teacher candidates for the classroom by mentoring, instructing, and advising them as they complete their coursework, clinical practice and assessments.

Mayra Franco, B.A.

Credential Analyst and Program Coordinator

mfranco11@ucmerced.edu

Mayra Franco was born and raised in Los Angeles and graduated from CSU, Northridge with a double Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies and Central American Studies in Spring 2019. Mayra started working as a student assistant in the Teaching Credential office and remained for the past 17 years in the world of Teaching Credentialing. When not at work, she likes to spend time with her family and friends. She also enjoys camping and loves nature outings.

Professional Licensure and Certification Disclosure

University of California programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student for California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the University of California and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.

The University of California has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification. Students planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether, if they complete a University of California program, they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification. This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668.43(a)(5)(v)(C).

Additional information is available by visiting the University of California | Office of the President and the California Department of Education.