Your Mother Always Said, "Listen to the Teacher!"

By Lonna Martinez

Every Board of Education needs an educator - here's why I am the most qualified.

I am starting my nineteenth year as an educator in the Hollister School District, and in that time I have been a classroom teacher, a Mentor Teacher, a Resource Teacher, a Reading Resource Teacher, and a Vice Principal. I have served on several committees, and I have led state mandated Program Quality Reviews and Coordinated Compliance Reviews. I have presented as a staff developer both within my district and at recognized teacher education conferences. These leadership experiences have allowed me to view education from many angles, and given me a good knowledge of the workings of the system and of educational issues. I will apply my knowledge to help the Board make informed decisions that ensure quality instructional programs.

Although I work in a neighboring district, I have been a member of the Gilroy community for seventeen years. I have been active with youth in the community through the Big Sisters of America program, and was named Big Sister of the Year for Santa Clara County in 1986. I also support my community in other ways, such as volunteering at the Garlic Festival and working for Rotary Club fund raisers. As an educator and a community member, I will form a bridge between the Board, the District, and the community to build relationships that support education.

Your mother always told you, "Listen to the teacher!" I hope that you will "listen to" my qualifications and support me on November 3rd.