Today, we’d like to introduce you to Martha Avila.
Hi Martha, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey began in a quaint town in Michigan, where my upbringing instilled in me the values of hard work and integrity. Growing up amidst the simplicity of a town with just one stoplight fostered a deep sense of community and security within me. My father’s occupation as a farm worker acquainted me early on with the importance of diligence and perseverance.
I found my calling at thirteen while working at a Migrant Summer School. The opportunity to assist others ignited my passion for service. Despite being underage, I dedicated myself to the cause, eventually transitioning from paid work to voluntary service. This experience laid the foundation for my educational career aspirations, which I pursued diligently until graduation.
Post-graduation, I seized the chance to contribute to the same elementary school I attended, assuming the role of a Bilingual Paraprofessional. Here, I worked with students from diverse backgrounds, including migrant families, instilling in them the value of education and language acquisition.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My transition to San Antonio, Texas, marked a significant chapter in my life. While the city’s vibrancy and diversity enamored me, I grappled with disconnection and unfamiliarity. Adjusting to a new environment devoid of familiar faces posed challenges, yet I resolved to immerse myself in community engagement.
Volunteering at local schools became my anchor, eventually leading to a full-time role as a paraprofessional. This journey was not without its hurdles, as acclimating to a new community demanded resilience and adaptability. However, these challenges catalyzed personal and professional growth, shaping me into who I am today.
I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My tenure as the parent and community liaison over the past five years has been characterized by a deep commitment to fostering community partnerships and enriching student educational opportunities. Through forging strong alliances with local businesses, we’ve provided our students invaluable exposure to various industries and hands-on learning experiences.
Central to our approach is the belief that community engagement is pivotal in nurturing the next generation. I take great pride in facilitating opportunities for our students to engage with local enterprises such as Nissei, Toyota, Harvey Cleary, and the Steven M. Clouse Water Recycling Center. These interactions, from volunteering and internships to participation in grand openings, empower our students and enrich their educational journey.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love San Antonio; it has become my home. The city has so much to offer and is rich in culture, history, and traditions.
Image Credits
Jeanette Perrio
