Maia Heyck-Merlin

Maia Heyck-Merlin has established herself as a leading voice in educational organization and leadership development through The Together Group, which she founded in 2007. Her career began as a Teach For America corps member in South Louisiana, where she earned Teacher of the Year honors and a Fulbright Memorial Fund award. Her leadership journey includes serving as Executive Director of TFA South Louisiana, Houston Institute Director, and founder of the National Institute Operations team. As Chief Talent Officer and COO at Achievement First, she oversaw human capital and operations across 20 charter schools. Her expertise in organizational efficiency and time management is captured in her bestselling books, including "The Together Teacher" and "The Together Leader," which have sold over 50,000 copies. Through The Together Group, she provides professional development focused on helping educators and nonprofit leaders maximize their effectiveness through better organization and time management. A Tufts University graduate in Child Development, she continues to influence educational leadership while balancing family life in the DC area.