Teacher Interview: Mr. Martinez
Written by: Carter Herman
When looking around the new Minis landscape, many familiar faces have returned, but one new face stands out—Mr. Randall Martinez. With his trademark cheerful smile, sharp pop-culture references, and signature Cuban Guayabera shirts in an array of vibrant colors, Mr. Martinez brings a distinct energy to the classroom. Now in his 20th year of teaching, Mr. Martinez is far more than an AP U.S. History and AP Government and Composition teacher. He is a seasoned scholar whose deep expertise in political communication, particularly in fostering social change across Latin America, sets him apart as a remarkable educator.
Martinez’s educational journey began at his alma mater, Christopher Columbus High School, where the principal recognized the need for a dynamic leader to breathe life into the school’s debate program. At the time, Mr. Martinez had already established himself as a successful coach in Orlando, but he welcomed the opportunity to give back to his high school community. He quickly electrified the program, turning it into a formidable force in the speech and debate world competing and winning domestically and even at a foreign level. His personal connection to debate runs deep, having spent 25 years in the community—four as a competitive debater himself—before transitioning into a collegiate-level coach. His extensive experience in debate has not only shaped his teaching philosophy but has also made him a respected figure within the broader academic community.
Central to Mr. Martinez’s teaching is his unwavering belief in the power of free expression. This principle, which informs much of his classroom instruction, is drawn from his personal experiences working with dissident blogging communities in Cuba. In these online spaces, Mr. Martinez witnessed firsthand how individuals living under repressive regimes found ways to express their political views and challenge the status quo. For him, free expression is more than a theoretical concept; it is a vital tool for resisting oppression and sparking social change. His involvement in USAID grassroots campaigns, along with his participation in the first political debate in 2015, further underscores his commitment to teaching the importance of political dialogue and civic engagement. These experiences have shaped the way he approaches his AP Government and U.S. History classes, where he encourages students to see history not just as a series of events but as a platform for dialogue and change.
Outside of his professional achievements, Mr. Martinez is deeply rooted in his personal life, particularly in his role as a father. With two young children attending local schools, he takes pride in balancing his family commitments with his passion for teaching and community involvement. His ability to seamlessly integrate his personal and professional lives has only enhanced his presence within the Minis community, where he is known for his enthusiasm, cultural pride, and commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity.
Mr. Martinez's dedication to empowering students through free expression and his expertise in Latin American politics and debate have left a profound impact, not only on his students but also on his colleagues. He remains a standout in the classroom, embodying the perfect blend of cultural insight, academic excellence, and a passion for social change.
