Meet Mariela Linares | PK/3rd Grade Tutor & Spanish Teacher

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mariela Linares and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mariela, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Being a school teacher for 20+ years and a lifetime education passionate has provided me with great understanding and perception of student needs. More specifically, it opened my thoughts and ideas of what is missing in their education process; moreover, I wanted to be able to offer many families the opportunity to have a more direct, personalized, one- to- one approach with their children in the comfort of a home environment, and with an experienced educator that has a solid knowledge and background. On the other hand, after the horrible pandemic that the world is going through, I also noticed that there was a need for a more direct and personalized education especially in kids from ages 3 to 9 which are the ages that I have worked with my entire career. Last but not least, being a Venezuelan native and having Spanish as a first language gives me the opportunity to also offer my tutoring services in Spanish given that Houston has an enormous Spanish community.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am originally from Caracas, Venezuela and attended Universidad Metropolitana where I studied Preschool Education/Management. Since I started my career it has always been my firm believe that education and family play a big role in the world’s evolution. I have kept my passion from day 1 and I lead with example by projecting this energy to my students. I am more than excited to be part of the development of future generations and it is not an easy job because society plays a big role in every kids mind. My job is not only helping kids in school subjects but also teaching them to be proud of themselves, to love themselves and to be excited of what they are becoming.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take my best friend to Memorial Park for a 3 mile run (1 loop) and then walk around the new development around it. Then, I would go to have brunch at Snooze. Also Burger Joint and Taco Stand are also favorites. Another day I would take them to the Menil Collection and The Museum District because they always have excellent exhibitions.
I also would check Discovery Park, or rent a bike and go around the Bayou.
For shopping, definitely The Galleria and Premium Outlets.
We could also go to St. Arnold’s brewery where we can have bites, pizzas and excellent local beers.
I love Brasil or Agora Cafe to have a glass of wine or a cup of coffee. And Big Yoga for an excellent hot yoga class.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to make a shoutout to all teachers and educators because we are the base and foundation of future generations. It is sometimes underestimated and it pays off when we as ALL make an impact in each child’s life. Also, I’d like to make a shoutout to many books, podcasts, and programs that I have read and attended that gave me strength and encouragement to pursue my dream. Tito Luzardo, Hackea tu mente (Hack your mind) program, Joe Dispenza books, and different podcasts by Jay Shetty, Lewis Howes, etc. Also to my dear partner that has given me the most important part of all, the support that I needed to take this huge step and risk.

Instagram: @marielalinares.tutoring