The Cardinal honors Ms. Victoria Martinez to close its tribute to Hispanic Heritage Month.  She is a well known and lovely biology teacher at Hoover High School who has been teaching for 10 years and has strong passion for her work and students.

She first began her journey to teaching by attending South Western college and San Diego State University where she studied systematic biology and ecology, which later helped her become a biology teacher. What Ms. Martinez loves most about  teaching is seeing the community that is there and seeing how spirited a classroom can be. She says she finds joy seeing her students come together and connect but also seeing them learn and feeling comfortable enough to express their thoughts. What she wants most for her students is to feel welcomed and to have a positive attitude that leads to a good day. Ms. Martinez is an enthusiastic and supportive teacher who likes to find the little things in life and comes in with a positive attitude each day and all while motivating students. Her positive attitude and enthusiasm creates an enjoyable environment for her students.

“Ms. Martinez was one of the best teachers on campus,” said former student Kiel Mantaotao. “She made me feel comfortable learning.”

Some words of advice she has for students is to take their time in life and to find whimsy in everyday things. She says finding the small things and appreciating the small details in things  can really make you appreciate things you’ve never appreciated before which gives life a more positive feel. Beyond her teaching life, Ms. Martinez is a devoted cat lover and owner who has fostered nine cats who she loves very much. She also enjoys music and loves attending concerts which make her feel more alive.

She encourages her students that, “One smile can make a difference in someone’s life.”