Gulliver Prep Names Maite Martinez-Cid Architecture Program Leader

Coral Gables, FL – Gulliver Preparatory School has appointed Maite Martinez-Cid to lead its Upper School Architecture Signature Academic Program. Martinez-Cid, who holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Miami, brings professional architectural experience and a passion for education to her new role.

Martinez-Cid practiced architecture before returning to teach at her alma mater. She found that she loved educating students and helping them develop their creativity and problem-solving skills. "I feel very fortunate to be able to introduce students to the world of architecture and to be part of their journey as they explore where their own interests and creativity can take them," Martinez-Cid said.

At Gulliver, Martinez-Cid integrates her professional perspective into the multi-year Architecture Signature Academic Program. The program offers Upper School students an in-depth exploration of architecture typically reserved for college studies. Gulliver’s Signature Academic Programs aim to transform curiosity into expertise through applied learning and real-world experiences. Architecture joins pathways in biomedical sciences, engineering, business, diplomacy, and digital mass media.

Martinez-Cid emphasizes the program's focus on developing critical thinking. "What makes the program special is that students have the time and space to develop the way they think, not just learn how to use architectural tools," she said.

Martinez-Cid's classroom operates as a design studio. Students engage in sketching, model building, digital renderings, and material experimentation. Projects range from designing buildings and furniture to studying biomimicry. Students test ideas, accept feedback, and refine their approaches. This process becomes meaningful when applied to authentic challenges, such as the Eco Resort Suite project, where students analyze sites and environmental conditions to develop responsive designs.

Martinez-Cid hopes students leave her classroom seeing more possibilities than when they entered. "They learn that the first solution is never the only solution, and that meaningful ideas are born of experimentation, reflection, and refinement," she said.