Viviana Martinez
- Island: Hawai‘i
- Class: 11th Grade ESOL Teacher & ELL Coordinator
- Years of Teaching: 11
- Field/Office: Konawaena High School
- Complex Area: Honokaʻa-Kealakehe-Kohala-Konawaena
- Home Town: Guadalajara, Jalisco
- District: Hawai‘i
What do you think is the Hawaii Department of Education’s greatest strength?
The Hawai’i State Department of Education encourages teachers to leverage community-raising as a resource for effective teaching and growing impact.
What do you think is the greatest strength about the complex area that you work in? What is your complex area known for?
Our complex has a lot of community support. We feel it when there is a crisis, celebration and at every football game.
What makes your particular school or office special or distinctive?
We are surrounded by coffee farms.
What are two main challenges you face or teachers in general face as a educator in Hawaii?
The cost of living is an ongoing challenge. For teachers who didn’t grow up here, like me, there is much to learn as you integrate into the community.
What are the qualities that make a Hawaii State Department of Education teacher successful?
Teachers who are successful in this state engage families, community partners and teach with aloha.
What words would you use to describe your students?
My students are social, kind and ambitious.
What is unique and/or special about the school you work at? What do you enjoy most about teaching there?
Konawaena High School was built in 1921 and is known for its connection to astronaut Ellison S. Onizuka. I love working at Konawaena High School because it’s given. me a sense of belonging. Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat! Rawr!!
What are some fun activities that individuals enjoy doing outside school hours within the COMPLEX AREA that you represent?
Individuals enjoy snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay and watching the sunset at Manini beach.
What are some fun activities that individuals enjoy doing outside school hours on the ISLAND that you work at?
Individuals enjoy camping at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and the stunning view at Pololū Valley.
What do you enjoy most about the students you teach in Hawaii?
My students are proud of their heritage and have deep respect for Hawai’i.
What do YOU enjoy doing in your free time while in Hawaii?
I love nature walks and exploring the tide pools. It’s these moments when I feel at peace and so very grateful for the natural beauty all around us!
What’s YOUR favorite local food on your island? How would you describe the food?
Kalua Pork and Cabbage is my favorite! I would describe it a juicy and savory meat dish.
What’s your favorite place to eat on your island? What kind of food is it?
The Theatery in South Kona serves New American cuisine with French techniques and a Hawaiian twist.
What are some housing tips that you could recommend for teachers relocating to Hawaii?
Talk to other teachers at your school. They have the best local connections.
What advice would you give to a new teacher who wants to work in your complex for the Hawaii DOE in general?
There’s a learning curve. Once you’re past that, you’ll find a strong sense of community and Wildcat pride!