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Martinez Unified honors educators of the year; Martinez Junior High named California Distinguished School
Summary
The district recognized site-level and district educators of the year and announced Martinez Junior High School as a 2026 California Distinguished School; teachers from multiple sites were invited forward for recognition.
Martinez Unified celebrated its educators of the year at the April 27 meeting, announcing site nominees and the district nominee who will represent Martinez at the county level. The meeting recognized educators across multiple campuses, citing contributions to instruction, student supports and campus leadership.
Among the named honorees were Lisa Kirker (John Elementary), Cindy Fontana (John Sweat Elementary), Katie Collins (Martinez Junior High School), Ben Wilson (Alhambra High School science department chair), Maryanne Bod (district early intervention preschool speech pathologist) and Marge McClean (adult education). The board invited the recognized educators to come forward for a photo and offered public congratulations.
Trustees and district leaders praised nominees for leadership in curriculum development, classroom innovation, special education collaboration, and long-term service. The district also announced that Martinez Junior High School was recognized as a 2026 California Distinguished School for achievement and closing achievement gaps; the school will hold the title for two years.
Interim Superintendent Janelle Ayat congratulated staff and emphasized partnership with families and the community during the transition period. Student and PTA representatives offered brief updates on recent school events and upcoming activities across the district.
The recognition segment occupied a substantial portion of the meeting and was followed by regular reports, items on the consent calendar and action agenda.
