PEELING BACK YOUR OUTER SHELL

Leslie Martinez kindles

Shakira sings an infamous verse in the background. Students dance and hum along to the familiar tune, thrilled to have a fun-filled Friday. Leslie Martinez pauses the song, explaining not only the lyrics, but also its lore. Everyone sits at the edge of their seats in anticipation. The Spanish 2 teacher values that they hear the language in context, especially in something as widespread as music. She goes beyond the textbook requirements, constructing more efficient rules.

Most importantly, her dedication to granting that wish is unrivaled. And despite teaching being considered a challenging career, Martinez has meticulously managed to get as close to mastering it as possible. She has brought a new kind of teaching to the table, expanding her students’ worlds.

“I think I’m from a different culture than students at this school are used to experiencing,” Martinez said. “I don’t know if it makes me better, but I think it makes me different, and I think different perspectives are important in life.”