Alexandria Avona

I attribute my success to nearly eight years of work at the intersection of mathematics education and the social determinants of health. My career began as a mathematics teacher in Oakland, California, where I came to a pivotal realization: many students were not struggling because of math itself, but because of underlying social, environmental, and organizational challenges that directly affected their ability to learn. That insight fundamentally reshaped my professional path.

Through my work and research in spatial cognition and learning environments, I developed a deeper understanding of how external factors—such as executive functioning challenges, organizational barriers, and broader social conditions—can significantly influence academic performance. My defining “aha” moment as an educator came when students began confiding in me about personal and systemic challenges, signaling that my role extended beyond instruction and into advocacy and problem-solving. This experience ultimately led me to found my company, with a mission to research and address these root causes so students can thrive academically.

Today, through We’re Solving Society, I focus on direct-action approaches to identifying and mitigating social determinants of health that impede educational and professional success. Our work centers on evidence-based investigation, ethical data analysis, and systemic accountability, particularly in contexts where structural inequities disproportionately affect individuals in leadership, analytical, and executive roles. Despite significant resource constraints, I remain committed to advancing fairness, transparency, and meaningful solutions that address economic, organizational, and environmental barriers to success.

The best career advice I’ve ever received came from mentors who encouraged me to explore unstructured, innovative approaches to problem-solving. I am especially grateful to Simme Kim from Eye Level Tutoring and Jeannie Huang, who supported my efforts to address social challenges in education in creative, flexible ways. I’ve also drawn inspiration from the late Maryam Mirzakhani, the brilliant Iranian mathematician whose groundbreaking work continues to influence and inspire my own approach to mathematics and research. Their guidance taught me the value of curiosity, persistence, and the courage to challenge traditional paths in pursuit of meaningful impact.

For young women entering the field of education, my advice is to focus on the bigger picture: address the underlying challenges your students face, not just the academic content. Success in this work requires patience, empathy, and resilience. Don’t take disrespect personally—let it be an opportunity to practice professionalism and maintain your focus on your goals. I also encourage cultivating reflection and meta-cognitive skills, both for yourself and for your students, as these are key to meaningful learning and growth. Outside of work, I find balance and inspiration through watercolor painting and spending time in nature, which remind me of the importance of creativity and perspective in both life and education.