MARTINA: S913-SAN

Martina is now 15 years old and has made incredible progress this year. She received a double promotion and is now in the fifth grade — a major achievement that reflects her hard work and determination. Her teacher describes her as a very good and hardworking student who takes her lessons seriously. Martina shared that she loves to read, and she enjoys spending time with books whenever she has the opportunity. Reading has become one of the ways she continues to strengthen her academic skills and grow in confidence. Life at home still requires responsibility, but Martina has shown that she is capable of balancing her duties and her education. Despite past struggles with inconsistent schooling due to financial hardship, she has proven that when given the opportunity, she can thrive. Martina’s double promotion is not just an academic achievement — it is a symbol of resilience, growth, and hope. We are so proud of the progress she has made and the bright future that lies ahead. Sponsored by: Phil Vasby

Martina is a bright 14-year-old girl who is currently in the 3rd grade, though her age reflects her academic journey more than the year she should be in. She lives in a small home with her father, who is unemployed, and her four younger siblings. Despite her best efforts to keep up with her studies, Martina’s education has been inconsistent. Her father struggles to afford the cost of schooling, which means she is often unable to attend class as regularly as she would like. Her dreams of having a steady education seem distant, but she continues to do her best with what little resources she has. After school, Martina’s main responsibility is to take care of the household. She is the one who cooks for her family, preparing meals to ensure that everyone is fed. This duty takes up most of her time, and although she loves playing kickball, her passion for the sport remains unfulfilled. She rarely gets the chance to play, as there simply isn’t enough time in her day. Martina dreams of a life where she can focus on her studies, explore her love for sports, and build a brighter future, but for now, she carries the heavy weight of responsibility on her shoulders. Despite the challenges, Martina’s spirit remains resilient. She holds onto the hope that one day, things will improve, and she’ll be able to experience the education and opportunities she deserves. Sponsored by: Amy Treinen