For 11 Years, Jose made learning relevant and fun for his Bear Creek High students. He helped them become informed and effective global citizens who appreciated the privileges and responsibilities of living in a democracy. In his Social Studies classes, Martinez encouraged complex thinking and creative problem solving that motivated students to work harder and excel. He used pop-culture references, current events and technology to make subjects accessible; in economics, for example, illustrating a lesson on supply and demand with a discussion of the economics of dating. An advocate of financial literacy, he also taught prudent money management in a fun and easy-to-understand way.
Though he loved teaching, he also understood the importance of being involved. Thus, he also coached the junior varsity boys’ tennis team, taught the school broadcasting class, and was a student senate advisor, helping to run homecoming, the prom, rallies, student government class and assemblies.
Colleagues consider Martinez a go-to guy. In addition to being social studies co-chair, he was a department manager, addressing the needs of 14 other teachers, ordering and organizing supplies and textbooks. He has supervised several student teachers and volunteered for his school technology committee. In his young career, Jose Martinez has proved to be an exceptional educator, innovator and human being.
In the fall of 2018, Jose became the Assistant Principal, Activities Director, and Technology Manager at Bear Creek High School. As a life long learner, he is enjoying the challenges brought forth by his new position and he loves that he is still able to give back to the school and community that he loves so much. He is excited to see what the future holds.
2014 Lowell Milken Center Fellow
Univ. of Northern Colorado Honored Alumni 2020
