Mara S. Cobe
Mara (Silverman) Cobe is a seasoned world language educator with over 33 years of experience in K–12 education. She currently serves as the K-12 World Languages Curriculum Specialist for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, one of the largest school districts in the United States, a role she has held for more than 18 years. Mara specializes in Spanish and French instruction, curriculum development, and immersion and continuation language programs, with a focus on creating equitable learning opportunities for all students. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and French Education from Illinois State University and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration from Gardner-Webb University.
Throughout her career, Mara has been committed to building strong professional networks and mentoring educators. She has been an active member and leader of the National Association of District Supervisors for Languages (NADSFUL), serving in roles including Executive Secretary, Vice President, President, and Past President. Her work has been recognized with the 2020 SCOLT Leadership Award, and she was selected as one of Charlotte’s Influential Women for 2026. Mara’s professional philosophy centers on equity, humanity, and opportunity, and she strives to create bridges across languages, cultures, and communities.
Mara began her career teaching Spanish and French in Central Illinois and later in Northern Virginia, where she launched an elementary Spanish program and taught a range of Spanish programs, including immersion continuation. After relocating to Charlotte shortly after 9/11, she transitioned into district-level coaching and leadership before taking on her current curriculum specialist role. Now preparing for retirement from her district position, Mara plans to continue her work in language education with a language company, bringing her expertise, mentorship, and passion for language learning to a broader audience.
• Gardner-Webb University – Master of Arts (M.A.), Educational Leadership and Administration
• Illinois State University – Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Spanish Language Teacher Education & French Language
• 2020 SCOLT Leadership Award
• Influential Woman 2026
• National Association of District Supervisors for Languages
• ACTFL
• SCOLT
• Meal train volunteer for congregation member
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the mentors and professional networks I have cultivated, particularly through NADSFUL, and to my colleagues who have mentored me in both small and large ways. These relationships have guided me, opened doors, and helped shape my path in world language education.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Be like a bridge, continue learning, be flexible, grow
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Build your network. Focus on creating opportunities for others—whether that’s students, colleagues, or the broader community—and strive to be a bridge that connects people and ideas.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Equity, humanity, and opportunity are at the forefront of everything I do. A guiding principle in my life, rooted in my faith, is to repair the world—a value that shapes my work and personal life daily.