“Something that sticks out about Sonia is that on multiple occasions, she will volunteer herself to assist with our more challenging students.  If she’s noticing a Program Assistant who is assigned to a specific student is maybe needing a break or assistance, she is usually one of the first who will say, ‘Hey, I’ll give you a little break. What do you need help with?’ That was something that really stood out to me about Sonia.” -Kelly Pawelko, Special Education Program Supervisor at Abraham Lincoln Elementary School

For 27 years — 17 of those at Lincoln — Sonia Martinez has dedicated her days to assisting countless teachers and students in the quest to lighten the load in the classroom and deliver top-notch education to students in the District with some of the most challenging academic and physical needs.

Thanks to her never-ending positive attitude, zest for life and extreme patience and thoughtfulness, Martinez was recognized as Employee of the Month and celebrated at this week's Board of Education meeting as one of D99's Very Own.

Click here to watch her story.