San Benito High School sophomore Ashley Martinez was recently
recognized for her academic improvement by the Hollister Rotary
Club.
San Benito High School sophomore Ashley Martinez was recently recognized for her academic improvement by the Hollister Rotary Club.
Ashley improved her failing grades to an overall C average, drawing attention from her guidance counselor for her significant improvement.
“She really dug in this year an did a great job,” said Mike Potmesil, human resources director for San Benito High School District. “She went above and beyond, and it’s really because of her own belief in herself, and the drive and belief of her mom, dad and sister, who have really nudged her forward.”
Ashley said she was motivated to bring her grades up by her older sister, who offered encouragement. Britany Martinez, 16, agreed to help Ashley with her homework and remind her to do it every day.
“I believed in myself that I could do it,” Ashley said. “I wanted to do it for my parents, so they can be proud of me. I also did it for myself.”
Ashley’s hard work paid off. Her parents were very excited to hear that she had been chosen as student of the month.
“I’m very, very happy,” said Raul Martinez, her father. “I’m very proud because she’s a good girl. She does a lot.”
Ashley says she plans to keep up her grades and even hopes to improve them over the next semester.
“My goal is to pay attention, do my work and be on task,” she said.
The Dirt on Ashley
Full name: Ashley Alyse Martinez
Age and year in school: 15-year-old sophomore
Birth place: El Centro, Calif.
Accomplishments: Brought up grades, showed significant improvement
Most influential people in my life: Parents and older sister, Britany
After finishing high school, I’d like to: Go to culinary school in San Francisco
Ten years from now, I’d like to: Have my own restaurant, serving Mexican and other foods
Favorite TV show: “The Hills”
Favorite musical group/artist: Ciara
Favorite movie: “The Notebook”
Favorite class: English, because I like to read a lot and do the group activities.
Favorite teacher: Marlene Villegas, because I can talk to her about anything and I feel like she really listens to me.
If I could change one thing about school: I would shorten the class periods from two hours to one.
The San Benito High School student of the month is selected by the assistant principals from a group of students nominated by guidance counselors and teachers.
