To be considered for the Presidential Award is a great honor. It renews the commitment I have to my students to give them a desire to learn more and to strive to be future generators of knowledge. This award also recognizes my fellow teachers, colleagues, and family. It is motivation to keep myself working with other educators to find innovative, attractive, and effective ways to teach math, as well as to encourage my students to pursue a career in STEM.

Marco Martínez-Leandro Albuquerque, NM | 7-12, Mathematics, 2013

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Marco Martinez-Leandro has been an educator for 25 years, teaching for 13 years in Albuquerque. He teaches 9th and 10th grade Algebra 1 and Geometry at Highland High School. He has taught Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, and Advanced Placement Calculus AB. Marco’s approach to teaching mathematics connects students’ prior knowledge with innovative ways of using technology. The use of simulation software and hands-on activities provides unique experiences to the students and allows them to discover real-world applications of concepts learned in the classroom. He integrates traditional tools, such as compasses and protractors, with technology to enhance his students' understanding and challenges them to look for different solutions to a problem. Outside the classroom, Marco was the sponsor of Mathematics Engineering and Science Achievement (MESA) for more than seven years, as well as the mathematics department chair. He has also been recognized with the Heroes in Education Award in Albuquerque for creating a webpage to help students through video tutorials in Spanish. Marco recently finished a M.A. in educational leadership, holds a M.A. in administration, and is currently pursuing a doctorate in teaching, learning, and teaching education at the University of New Mexico. He also has a B.S. in mechanical engineering from the Institute of Technology of Chihuahua.

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