My name is Ms. Martinez, and I am excited to begin a year of exploration, experimentation and discovery in science class with you. This is my eighth year teaching at JMS. I grew up and currently live in the San Gabriel Valley, so it is very special and an honor to be working in the community. 

I completed my Masters of Science in Science Education at Cal State Long Beach (Go Beach!). I earned my Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences and my Secondary Science Teaching Credential from the University of California, Berkeley (Go Bears!). Prior to working at JMS, I was a teaching assistant, museum employee, undergraduate researcher, laboratory assistant, and coffee barista. :) I gained teaching experience in the Berkeley Unified School District and summer science programs in Berkeley and Hacienda Heights. 

I teach science because I think there is nothing more powerful than being able to explain and understand the world around you. Through the practice of science, you can learn to ask questions, make observations and learn how things are made and how they work - machines, plants, space objects, medicines, animals and even humans! Not only will you feel cool explaining to others, science skills will help you solve problems and make decisions in your everyday life.

In my free time I love to spend time in nature! The beach, going camping, hiking trails - you name it. I also love cooking, traveling to new places, reading, exercising, watching shows and playing games.