Corina Martinez

Corina Martinez is a kindergarten teacher at Pioneer Elementary School in the
Escondido Union School District. Prior to her new assignment, Mrs. Martinez spent
several years teaching fifth grade, yet jumped joyously into teaching Kindergarten and
found renewed passion with her young students. Teaching is one of the greatest joys of
her life as she strives to build lasting relationships, and develop her students into
confident, capable learners. She explains, “Each year brings new faces, powerful
stories, and meaningful opportunities to make an impact. These moments, big and
small, remind me of my purpose.”

In her classroom, building love and trust is paramount. Each morning begins with
intention. At the door, Mrs. Martinez greets every student, offering a fist bump, side hug,
or quiet check-in. In daily circles they share, problem-solve and reconnect. Their days
are filled with a buzz of energy and connection as they learn with joyful rigor.

Mrs. Martinez is not just passionate about supporting student learning, but is driven to
make sure that they have every support they need to arrive at school every day, where
chronic absenteeism can be an issue. She connects with their parents and learns their
needs as well, encouraging volunteerism and attendance at school functions, and
advocates for families navigating economic instability, language barriers, and
immigration-related concerns. Her role as an advocate extends beyond the classroom
to students, colleagues, and the broader school community. As a mentor teacher, Mrs.
Martinez also supports CSU San Marcos candidates through hands-on coaching, co-
planning, and co-teaching.

In her words, “Being a teacher means meeting the needs of the whole child. It means
showing up with love, holding space for struggle, and lifting every student toward the
future they deserve. And it’s about knowing that sometimes, what a child needs most is
someone who sees who they can become, even when they can’t see it yet. I’m proud of
the work I’ve done and the students who have trusted me to walk beside them. And I’m
excited for what’s ahead: more love, more trust, more brave learning.”