Music that Describes Sandra
Sandra Martinez was nominated by Kimberly Jackson, a parent of a student.
"Sandy is our Special Ed Teacher at Del Mar Hills," said Jackson. "I am nominating her for this award because she has been very instrumental in my son's learning at his school. My son, age 11, was born with Cranial Cavernous Malformations. While many people and educators basically gave up on Waylon living a normal life and going to a standard elementary school, Sandy did not. She knew he needed to be with his peer group but also understands that Waylon learns differently than most students. Due to the four brain surgeries Waylon has endured, he shows symptoms of an ADD-like learning style. Sandy worked hard to create a program for him that keeps him with the peer group he has been with since kindergarten, but also provides one on one learning for many situations like math and writing, where he needs that kind of attention."
Without Sandy's involvement in Walon's learning, he may have been transferred to a different school site and placed in a different group. Waylon was losing sleep over this move and was having stomach aches and crying on and off.
"He was depressed over this move," said Martinez. "Sandy knew this wasn't the right fit for him and stood up for him. She pursued a new course, which she created herself, at his current school site. It was the right thing to do. With this one-on-one learning for him, he has grown tremendously. He also thrives in his social engagements at school, as he was able to stay with his peer group, which is what all of the stress/depression/anxiety was about. We are so grateful for Sandy."
"It is amazing all that she was able to accomplish with him, while also dealing with personal tragegy," said Jackson. "Most people wouldn't have worked so hard for someone else's kid the way she did while also dealing with her own grief. We owe so much to Sandy and feel this nomination is just a fraction of what she deserves as a learning provider!!!!"
When I started at Delmar Hills Academy, I did not know much English, because I had just moved from Holland. Miss Martinez was always there to help me and to cheer me on even through the hard times. I still think of her to this day and I’m reminded by her happiness and positivity and learning. She has had a very big influence on my life and I hope others can see that as well.
One of the things that I love most about Sandi is that she has the gift of being so purely authentic. She puts students’ needs ahead of her own and she is always is willing to bend over backwards for her students and staff members. Her energy is contagious and you can’t help but love her because of how she is able to see humor when others fail to, how she makes you smile during times you feel defeated, and how she keeps going with the love and passion for teaching and serving those who need her educational/social emotional support. She is truly skilled at understanding students’ needs and knowing what steps to take to see their success. Sandi is changing students’ lives in a positive direction and she does it effortlessly. She has and continues to influence me. She has had an immense impact on me as an educator. I will be forever grateful to Sandi for all that she does and continues to do for our school and the students she serves each day.
Sandi Martinez is a LifeChanger to all who have been blessed to know her. Fifteen years ago we were faced with sending our son, recently diagnosed with Autism, to school. My husband and I were at a loss and research wasn’t readily available. Sandi spent hours helping us navigate the world of IEPs. More importantly, Sandi gave us hope. Sandi shared ideas with us and shared possibilities of our son’s future abilities. I truly believe Sandi was a crucial part of laying our son’s foundation. Sandi changes life’s of all around her, even in the midst of personal challenges and tragedy. She gives to her students, her student’s parents, and her family and friends.
Sandi changed our family’s life. Our son just graduated high school with a diploma and started his first semester in college and it all started with a phone call to Sandi, who dropped everything she was doing to sit and give us support, encouragement, and hope.
It is with immense pride and admiration that I have the opportunity to speak about the exceptional leader and educator that is Sandra Martinez. I have had the honor and the privilege of working with and from Sandra Martinez for over a year and a half and the profound impact her energy and innate knowledge has had on my life has deeply and positivley influenced the way I conduct myself professionally and personally. Sandra is the definition of resilience, optimism, and tenacity. The joy, love, and ethereal spirit that radiates from her is unlimited and her selfless commitment to her students is unlike and deeper than any other. There are truly those who teach, and those who set out to shape and change the lives and mindset of students. She possesses that remarkable and rare ability to profoundly transform students' lives. Sandras intent is pure in every action and move that she makes. She not only actively and authentically seeks ways to make learning engaging and personal for students, but she also enriches the educational experience through creative and unique activities that inspire students to meet and exceed their goals. She leads by example and I can personally attest as a witness to her magic, that she has left a timeless mark on every student she has crossed paths with, if even for a short time. She is extrodinarly brave and her ability to challenge students to rise above personal or academic obstacles paves the way for long term positive changes in their lives. Her commitment to her students and her school community is admirable and her advocacy for those she works with is immeasurable. Sandra goes above and beyond and she has fostered an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential, which she so clearly sees in them the second she meets them. Her classroom is a sanctuary of inspiration, acceptance, and safety, where her students are nurtured, heard, and seen for who they truly are. She is an innovator, a personal hero, a mentor - a shining and true example of what it means to be a life changer. Sandras dedication, unwavering passion, boundless empathy, and willingness to always go ten extra miles, is awe inspiring. I know I speak for so many educators, parents, and students when I say Sandra is a gem, and the meaningful impact she has had on our lives will forever stay with us.
The greatest testament to Sandi’s ability to change a life is not in the act itself; it is in the effects of that change. Sandi Martinez is a world changer. That is just who she is.
Sandi is more than everyone’s favorite teacher, favorite neighbor, or favorite Bunco player. She touches everyone’s life in a way that inspires them to be more, to be better.
Her relentless optimism and joy are uplifting, her faith and patience unbreakable, her genuine empathy and care palpable. She rises and falls alongside you, relishing your accomplishments and mourning your failures, but always without judgment and ready to help you tackle what’s next.
She finds ways to bring out the best in everyone around her. She is not the person who believes in what you can accomplish; she is the person who makes YOU believe in what you can achieve.
Whether it is attending the high school graduation of a student who struggled to read before she entered her classroom nearly a decade earlier, she is with you to the end. Or the student who survived a difficult series of medical procedures receiving visits and encouragement from his favorite teacher in the hospital? That kid went on to college and started a nonprofit to help other children feel less alone when they end up in the hospital. Inspired by her strength and resilience, her brother was moved to write and publish for the stage to bring awareness to issues of violence and how they can affect a family. When asked why she felt it was essential to succeed in her own life, her daughter talked of her mom’s sacrifice, hard work, dedication, and belief. “I want her to know what that means to me,” she said, “and I want to make her proud.” She is now excelling at a top 3 university for her field of study and has already accomplished more than most of her peers three years ahead in her program.
It is easy to overlook these moments because they are not Sandi’s accomplishments. These stories are not accidents. They are incidental. If a rising tide lifts all boats, Sandi is not a wave. She is the moon.
There are few people I have met in my life who can make people want to be better just by existing. That is the greatest testament to the person Sandi is.
Year after year, student after student, friend after friend, the people she touches are moved to be better than they are. She has the power and sees the responsibility to change the world, but not the whole world. Just your world. And my world. And the world of each of her students.
Her smile can change your mood, her belief can change your attitude, her essence can change what you see before you, and that changes your world. That is Sandi’s accomplishment if that is what you can call it.
You see, Sandi is a LifeChanger and a world changer. And the lives in this world are all the better for it.
All of the above and more is true of Sandra Martinez. She is sincerely an exemplary educator and human who positively and powerfully impacts the lives of all her students and their families. I have had the pleasure of working along side Sandra for the past 3 years as a peer teacher and am always impressed and inspired by her positive influence and leadership. Sandra is intelligent, passionate, a self starter, and a problem solver. She is an advocate for all children. There is no person more worthy of this award than Sandra Martinez. She is the LifeChanger of the Year, this year and every year.
I’ve only known Sandi for the past year, but sometimes you meet someone and immediately know what a warm and special person they are. Sandi’s passion for her family, friends, work, and life comes through every time I see her. Just reading some of the other comments on the page reiterates what I've experienced: how special she is, how many lives she’s touched, and how those feelings are returned by those who know her. In just a short time, she’s inspired me to take a closer look at how I live my life and what I can do to improve my interactions with others. And I think that is one of the main qualities of someone considered a ‘LifeChanger' - how your daily interactions with people can inspire and change others.
Sandi spreads joy and light around our campus for both children and adults! She makes every child feel seen, heard, and valued. I have the privilege of working closely with Sandi as a colleague. She deserves this award!
Wow! Sandi is a mover and a shaker who immerses herself in a career of giving, educating, supporting, and loving children! Of course she deserves recognition! Above and beyond are the standards she sets for herself and the direction she takes her students.
Sandi is a LifeChanger in EVERY sense of the word. Her passion for students, colleagues, community, friends and family well-exceeds the imaginable. Throughout the twists and turns of life, Sandi always finds a way to ensure that others' needs are put before her own--taking each and every opportunity to help bring tremendous JOY to others' live . . . Sandi is a true LifeChanger!
LifeChanger of the Year is a perfect description of Sandi. However, I would include all times; past, present, and all years to come. As her Aunt, I have known Sandi all her life. Sandi has always put others first. To know Sandi is to benefit from her unselfish kindness and astute discernment. Sandi has persevered under the loss of a loved one while still caring for others. Combined with Sandi's marvelous qualities, Sandi also provides the most fun and enjoyment. To know Sandi is to experience the most rewarding life experience.
Mrs. Martinez, a special education teacher from my elementary school days is my favorite teacher. Mrs. Martinez was not just an educator; she was a mentor, a guide, and a friend. Her teaching style was unique, combining traditional methods with innovative techniques that made learning engaging and fun. She had a profound influence on me, I had a very hard time in school with learning. As a student with learning disabilities, she inspired me to express my thoughts and ideas with confidence. Mrs. Martinez, has an engaging teaching style and her dedication to her students' learning. She uses hands-on learning to make complex concepts understandable and exciting. I admire her for her patience, her passion for teaching and the ability to make me feel valued and capable. She influenced my education journey by believing in me. Showing me that there are different learning styles and not ever child learns the same way. I am a kinesthetic learner, and Mrs. Martinez help to find the ways I learn best. She was able to provide me with lots of little tricks to solve problems or how to break down an essay into steps that I could understand. She is still very active in my life today and I feel blessed to know her. She is always in my corner letting me know I can do anything, I put my mind to and if I need help along the way she will always make time for me.
Here I sit trying to think of what to say and all I can do is cry with happiness for her. I’ve known Sandra for a long time but not in the way most people know her. The day she came into my life was absolutely a life-changing event. I was not her student or a student’s family member but I know how much she is involved in those student’s lives and the role she plays in going to the wall with each and every one of them. She once told me when I told her she must have the hardest job in the world seeing these youngsters swimming upstream to keep up with other students; “Are you kidding me, I love my job so much I’d do it for free if the school couldn’t pay me." I will never forget her saying this to me. Sandra is the most giving human I know and everyone who knows her is the beneficiary of her giving personality. Of course, her students are the most rewarded of all but she also loves all her friends and family beyond normal. Sandra’s husband Tom passed away two years ago and I marveled at the way she held everything together in that terrible tragedy. I personally have benefited from her intelligence, resourcefulness, and willingness to go above and beyond. I have an 80% PTSD disability Sandra helped educate me about this ordeal, without that life could have been different. All the while dealing with what life has handed her in such an unselfish way. I sincerely hope Sandra is rewarded by being nominated for the LifeChanger of the Year honor.
Sandi is now a co-worker of mine however years ago she worked very closely with my son who was having difficulties with school. Not only did Sandi make a huge impact on my son's learning she also made a HUGE impact on my own understanding and fears around what was going on with my son. She was caring, and patient, she was kind and understanding. She listened to my fears and shared her own experiences as a mother with me. I now have the pleasure of working with Sandi. She is HILARIOUS!!!! She brightens the day with her cheery attitude, her humor, and her constant willingness to help others. Sandi treats her students with the utmost respect. She knows them not just as learners but on a personal level too. She connects with them. Her students feel safe with her. They LOVE sharing with her and being in her presence. Sandi is a LifeChanger. She puts her heart and soul into her work. She is a natural educator and a natural leader. I feel privileged to be able to work with her in so many capacities. We are all so lucky to have her.
I am a friend of the Jackson family and I've been very close with the 3 boys since they were babies. Their youngest, Waylon, had 4 brain surgeries and would be considered a multi-stroke victim, which resulted in learning ability difficulties. Getting help for a child victim of strokes is difficult due to the fact a pediatric stroke is rare compared to an adult. It was not easy finding a program to help Waylon learn a different way when none really existed - there wasn't an off-the-shelf or a proven solution for a pediatric patient like Waylon. The one person that clearly understood Waylon's situation, devised a specific learning program, based on Waylon's specific needs, implemented and taught this program to Waylon, and made a life-changing impact on Waylon's life, was Sandi. The results were beyond anything we could have anticipated - it was short of a miracle. Waylon was able to catch-up and learn the years he fell behind due to his condition. This would never have happened if it wasn't for Sandi caring for his well-being as much as she did, thinking outside the box, and working to customize a learning program that best fit Waylon's needs. He is now a very normal 6th grader, learning with his peers and eager and confident to excel, all due to Sandi. The family is forever grateful and extremely lucky to have had her in Waylon's life and as Waylon’s teacher.
I've only known Sandi for over a year and she has already made a huge impact in my life. The way she cares for her peers and students is beautiful to witness. Her presence at work makes a huge difference in the day. She's always so positive, witty, and kind. To know Sandi is to love Sandi. Anyone who knows her knows how true that is. I'm so proud of her! She's so deserving of this nomination!
Sandi Martinez is truly a LifeChanger and so deserving of this award. She is someone who changes lives and has so much compassion for each of her students. I am honored to work alongside her, she has taught me so much and I will forever be grateful for her. Thank you Sandi for being YOU!
There are not enough words to write as to how much Sandi Martinez deserves this award.
Firstly, her genuine passion for teaching her students and support for parents is unwaviering. As a parent, I am in awe of her immense strengh patience and support that she gives to each ons of her students! Teachers like her are heaven sent, Mrs. Martinez truly understands her students and goes the extra mile to not only provides emotional support but, her unique teaching skills make leaning fun and engaging. I feel so blessed to know this amazing women and have her in my life.
Former Student: Gabi Sip
Mrs. Martinez, a special education teacher from my elementary school days is my favorite teacher. Mrs. Martinez was not just an educator; she was a mentor, a guide, and a friend. Her teaching style was unique, combining traditional methods with innovative techniques that made learning engaging and fun. She had a profound influence on me, I had a very hard time in school with learning. As a student with learning disabilities, she inspired me to express my thoughts and ideas with confidence. Mrs. Martinez, has an engaging teaching style and her dedication to her students' learning. She uses hands-on learning to make complex concepts understandable and exciting. I admire her for her patience, her passion for teaching and the ability to make me feel valued and capable. She influenced my education journey by believing in me. Showing me that there are different learning styles and not ever child learns the same way. I am a kinesthetic learner, and Mrs. Martinez help to find the ways I learn best. She was able to provide me with lots of little tricks to solve problems or how to break down an essay into steps that I could understand. She is still very active in my life today and I feel blessed to know her. She is always in my corner letting me know I can do anything, I put my mind to and if I need help along the way she will always make time for me.
LifeChanger award…so perfectly put. Sandi is just that, a life changer. I’ve known her for many years. Raised our kids together. Laughed and cried together through happy and tough times. Sandi gave my daughter someone to connect with during some very difficult years. She reached into her heart and offered love, compassion, support and friendship. Sandi shines from the inside out and through others. Truly selfless and deserving of this award. We are blessed to have Sandi in our life and to call her friend, family.
Sandi is by far the most memorable, funniest and kindhearted woman I have ever met! I first met Sandi when I became her student teacher about 12-13 years ago at her school site. I knew right away we would be friends for life because she is truly an incredible person. I had the opportunity to witness her teaching magic. I was inspired every day by observing her support each students on her caseload and leading challenging IEP meetings. When I think about someone who helped lay the foundation of my career in education “Sandi Martinez” always comes to mind.
We all have a purpose in life…Sandi helped guide me to my purpose and I’m forever grateful!
When I heard that Sandi was nominated for Lifechanger of the Year, I wasn’t the least bit surprised. She is an absolutely incredible human. Sandi brings joy and light to all that come in contact with her.
I have had the pleasure of having Sandy part of my circle of friends for over 15 years. Through the years I have come to know Sandy as a passionate SPED teacher with the compassion matched by few. I'm certain the impact on both academic and life skills has been felt by many of her students. Special needs staff are often over looked and Sandy's impact is worth recognition more than words can describe. Thank you, Sandy, for your love, passion and dedication. Thank you to Waylon's mom for recognizing her in this way!
Sandy was so instrumental in my son’s education its hard to even put in words. My son walked into grade school as a third grader with very challenging Dyslexia and ADHD conditions and was evaluated as a first grade reading level. When my son graduated from grade school he was at grade level and making incredible marks in all subjects. Without Sandy’s support and commitment to my son i am not sure how he would ever got through his disabilities. He graduated from high school with honors and got an academic scholarship to UW university. None of this would have been possible without Sandy in my sons life.
You know when you meet a person and you just know they are a ray of sunshine? That’s how I felt the first time I met Sandi Martinez. Her compassion for life, especially children, is contagious and I can’t think of a more deserving person to win this award. The way that Sandi pours her heart into the kids and believes in their abilities beyond their own aspirations is inspiring to us all. Thank you Sandi for your patience and everything you’ve done to make this world a brighter place.
Sandi is the epitome of a life changer. She has the biggest heart, the funniest sense of humor, and hands-down the most positive attitude. I was fortunate enough to work with Sandi as one of her aides, and I've seen first hand the unequivocal impact she has had on not only students but their families as well. Sandi is a person you want in your corner, and someone I always want in my life. For her students, she is their teacher, advocate, and loudest cheerleader. As a friend, she has enriched my life with laughter, support, guidance, and love. Lastly, Sandi is a role model who has demonstrated how to be an exemplary educator, mother, and all around good human being.
Sandi and I co-taught last year to support a very special group of students. She used her expertise to help every child in the class. The kids benefited from her dedication and commitment. She also connected with each child because of her sense of humor and compassion. I appreciate how Sandi made sure that our most vulnerable students had both academic and emotional support. Over the years I have seen many students make tremendous growth because of Sandi’s Herculean efforts to meet their individual needs. I especially recall how she help one student and their family by opening her home to them to celebrate Thanksgiving when the family was going through a challenging time. Sandi has a big heart and a never ending smile for all kids and teachers at our school. She mentors instructional aids and teachers. She supports parents too. She also makes sure we have baby showers and get well cards as well as end of the year celebrations. She does it all and she does it from her heart. We love her dearly. Sandi is deserving of every award you have for amazing educators.
Sandy has such a big heart and cares and loves her job. She always wants to include everyone and has such a fun loving personality.
I worked with Sandi for 12 years and personally witnessed her transform the lives of innumerable students. Her compassion, perseverance, and brilliance in addressing the individual educational needs of students was an inspiration to watch. Sandi’s knowledge was formidable but what made her special was her kind heart. Kids knew that Sandi cared about them. Whenever a child was in distress throughout the school, Sandi would be summoned to clear their tears or offer a cooling off break. Life can be hard sometimes but students felt renewed and hopeful if Sandi was there. So wise. So professional. So kind and caring. Sandi deserves the best!
Sandi Martinez is the kindest, warm hearted and genuine person you would ever want to meet. No matter what she’s doing, and she’s doing a lot, she never hesitates to talk with people, to offer guidance and support to anyone. Her positive attitude can lift a person to the highest of heights. When she speaks with kids, her interest in whatever the discussion might be surpasses most people. She’s an incredibly gifted educator and a true friend, and I’m so thankful that Sandi is part of my world.
Sandi is the kindest soul. Her positive energy is almost as contagious as her laugh. She truly thinks of others before herself and it’s impossible to be in a bad mood with her around. She is everyone’s #1 cheerleader.
Sandi Martinez is genuinely the definition of sunlight in human form. She lights up every room she walks into and is the most genuine and down to earth woman, to know her is to love her! I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award. She is the kindest, most thoughtful woman I know and I’m so blessed to be able to know her. She always has a positive outlook no matter what the situation may be. She is like a second mother to me and imagining her as a teacher is the most perfect occupation for someone like her. Always putting people before herself.
This women is an inspiration to everyone she meets. She is loyal educator that values her students and their critical need above all else. Sandy delivers 120% in everything she puts her mind to. I value her opinion and insight! She always puts her students first. Please consider Sandy for your exceptional award, thank you!
Michelle
Sandi has help me be a better educator and better human. I have seen her more times than I can count give of herself to others beyond what is expected and often beyond what seems possible. She is a bright light and one who makes this world a better place to be not only because of her tremendous impact on her students, but on all she comes in contact with.
Sandra is one of the most authentic and joy individuals on this planet. She’s faced adversity and painful life obstacles, while still finding ways to be a positive influence on others. She LOVES her students and her school! You would be doing a very impactful thing by choosing her!
Sandi is one of a kind! Selfless to the cure. I’m privileged and honored to know her and strive every day to be more like her. She makes everyone around her want to do better. The children she teaches are so blessed to have an individual that cares so much This world needs more Sandi’s.
Sandi is a GIVER. She lives life with gusto, love, and laughter. She is selfless and compassionate in all aspects of her life…teaching…her students…family…friends…and community. She goes to bat for those who cannot, and for those who need a little help along the way. Having known Sandi for many years, I can honestly say that her kindness and humor, touches all who know her. She is truly an honorable human being, and most deserving of the LifeChanger of The Year Award.
I worked with Sandi for many years. Her dedication to her students was truly inspiring. I can recall so many times she went above and beyond for her students. She is so dedicated to each and every student that she teaches. She is such a valued colleague and an amazing teacher. She is so deserving of this award.
As a retired educator of the public schools in Texas and the grandparent of Waylon Jackson, it is definitely my privilege to add my support for the nomination of Sandi Martinez for the Life Changer of the Year Award. This is exactly what she has done with her conviction to further the education for my grandchild. It is a pretty helpless feeling when other educators did not do their part. Thank goodness for Sandi! She is instrumental in making Waylon who he is today! Waylon, his parents, friends, and this grandparent will be forever grateful.
Sandi is the most compassionate, smart, and caring educator I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. Her students genuinely love her because they know that without a doubt she loves them. Her ability to build lasting relationships is unparalleled. Students thrive under her guidance and I can’t think of a better person for this award.
Sandy is not just an educator and advocate for special needs kids, she is an unofficial member of our family. My grandson, a sixth grader with a rare brain disorder, has flourished under Sandi's loving guidance and encouragement. He is a happy and cheerful boy who loves his school and his teachers, especially Sandy. Please reward her for her extraordinary expertise, courage to buck the system, and all encompassing humanity as she strives daily to better the lives of our children.
When I think of Sandi Martinez three words immediately come to mind, compassion, integrity, and value. This is seen in both her professional life as well as her personal life. Sandi will approach a problem with compassion because she knows that each persons' life she touches has tremendous value. I cannot think of someone more deserving of this award than Sandi. We are all better people because of her. Thank you. Leslie Gibbons (a proud mom)
Sandi was nominated for a LifeChanger of the Year award and I can't think of anyone more deserving. She is someone who changes your life the moment you meet her, whether as a teacher, friend, or stranger. I am lucky enough to get to call her family, and have been so blessed to know her my entire life. She is a rock that grounds me, teaches me about life, love, and how to deal with loss. Throughout my parenting journey I refer back to WWSD(what would sandi do) in challenging situations and always find positive guidance. The love she gives is whole hearted, full of humor and grace, and she always helps the people around her live a better life. #LCOYSandi was nominated for a LifeChanger of the Year award and I can't think of anyone more deserving. She is someone who changes your life the moment you meet her, whether as a teacher, friend, or stranger. I am lucky enough to get to call her family, and have been so blessed to know her my entire life. She is a rock that grounds me, teaches me about life, love, and how to deal with loss. Throughout my parenting journey I refer back to WWSD(what would sandi do) in challenging situations and always find positive guidance. The love she gives is whole hearted, full of humor and grace, and she always helps the people around her live a better life. #LCOY
I’ve known Sandi for quite a few years now and she is definitely a stand out - one in a million kind of person. She’s smart, funny, caring, and extremely witty. She is very passionate about her career as a teacher and is always willing to learn more to help her students. She seems to crave knowledge and her brain soaks it all in and she applies what she’s learned to everyone around her. I am very fortunate and proud to know her and have her in my life as a friend.
I am absolutely not surprised that Sandi is receiving a nomination for this award. She is a dedicated, caring and highly experienced educator. After enduring personal tragedy over the last several years she still gives 110% to her school, students, family and community. She is deserving of recognition for her resilience in all that she does.
Working along side her. She is truly one of the greatest educators. She is so kind and our kids biggest cheerleader. She helps all our students learn and grow not only learners but as people. She is always there for her coworkers as well. Sandi is certainly a life changer.
Kudos to Sandi Martinez, she is Instrumental in helping my grandson, Waylon Jackson, get into the proper program for his issues. Waylon has had several traumatic brain surgeries and needs specific care, Sandi helped him get the care he needs. She’s the best! We are so lucky to have her in our school! Hugh Terrell, Ph.D., Behavioral Psychology …
As a healthcare and educational advocate I work with many special Ed teachers. Sandi is by far the best, most empathetic and efficient special Ed specialist I have ever worked with in my 26 years of working . She has the best most positive attitude for every situation and is so wonderful to work with. She should be treasured in the school district!
Sandi is a true inspiration to everyone she meets. She exhibits an abundance of dedication,
knowledge, kindness, grit, and humor in everything she does. The world would be a brighter place if there were more people like Sandi in it!
Sandi is a colleague and amazing friend. She is one of a kind, and a person who cares deeply about all of her students. Waylon & Kim are so lucky to have this amazing woman in their corner. No one advocates for her students and colleagues like Sandi does. I can't think of a better person to partner with and learn from on a weekly basis. She is an expert in the field of special education, but more importantly she is an expert at building relationships and fostering a sense of belonging amongst her peers and students. You rock, Sandi!
Sandra a passionate, empowering, dedicated professional. Hard working, caring, kind and understanding all apply to Sandra’s professionalism and talents in bringing the best out of the young people she serves. This combination of commitment, empathy, and energy is a reason why so many of her students keep in touch with her beyond their years in the classroom. This perhaps more than any single thing serves as validation of Sandra’s impact in shaping the growth and development of young minds.
Sandi Martinez is the perfect blend of compassion, strength, empathy and talent. She advocates for her students and their educational, socio-emotional needs at every turn. She is compassionate and empathetic to her students and their families. She is also extremely talented! She is able to collaborate effectively with many different paraprofessionals, her own Special Education team, and General Education teachers.
Please consider Sandi Martinez for this honor! She is the best!
I worked alongside Sandi for many years as we were on a school based special education team together. I enthusiastically support this wonderful nomination of her as I've witnessed her passion and dedication for her students!
Sandi is one of the most giving, considerate and genuine human beings I know! I consider myself so lucky to have her as a friend! She continually demonstrates her inner strength and willingness to be there for those less fortunate, even as Kimberly stated, in the midst of her own pain and tragedy.
Sandi has an amazing heart and soul, she embodies so many awesome characteristics! She is so well deserving of this prestigious award!
I couldn't agree more. Sandra Martinez has been a thought provoking advocate for students and isn't afraid to challenge the norm with her assessments. Everyone is uniquely different and must be researched individually. She takes the time and will challenge "the box" some may try to put individuals into based on a first pass circumstance.
Her work and relentless pursuit to find the best solution at the core, is where she dives deep to make sure long-term success can be achieved at the highest extent for each individual.
She has positively impacted my life, and countless others.
Sandi has made a huge impact on not only student lives, but also those around her.
I’ve known Sandi for 20 plus years have never met anyone that had been more dedicated and committed to her students than Sandi Martinez.
The passion and excitement she has for creating programs for her students and seeing how life changing they are for students knowing that they were given up on previously leaves her determined to make a difference in their lives.
I’m in awe of her commitment and love for her students and get excited hearing about their success.
Denise Baker
I have nothing but wonderful things to say about Sandi. She worked with my daughter during elementary school and was a driving force in her education and accomplishments. I could not have picked a better person to be along side my daughter and her journey through elementary school. Nothing but kind and wonderful things to say about her and she deserves this and more!
I've known Sandra Martinez for 20+ years and have personally witnessed the time, energy & love that
goes into everything she does for her students, as well as the other teachers she works with. Her dedication to making a difference in her students lives is always on display, whether its talking about the achievements & accomplishments she sees her students making each and every day, or whether its exploring new & innovative approaches she envisions will inspire and engage her students - Sandra's commitment to making a difference and changing lives is truly inspiring and clearly part of her DNA!!
Sanda has invested her time, money and personal resources toward her mission to be the very best special educator on the planet and its clear that nothing will limit her quest to HELP her students (individually and collectively) get the most out of their Del Mar Hills Academy experience!
What a great opportunity to recognize Sanda, as well as thank her for her quest to make a profound difference for her very special students, by nominating her for and ultimately awarding her with a LifeChanger of the Year Award!!
Sandy has been an inspiration in my life. I was lucky enough to know her when I was a little girl and grow up looking up to this amazing human being who has the biggest heart. I look at her as a sister because she is my family. Sandy has been someone I can always count on and has been my rock. Through hard times in my life she has been there and guided me through. Teaching me ways to be kind and have courage. My life and my family has changed in a positive way by her selflessness and determination to always help others and see them smile.
You could not award a better person for being a life changer!
So well deserved! Students are lucky to have Sandi supporting and advocating for their needs!
Sandi is truly a fantastic educator! Her knowledge, patience and kindness shine through in all her interactions with our students. The strong connections and love she has with/for each student boosts their confidence and sets them on a path to be successful in all aspects of their life
