Posted inEducation

Honoring Service: Juarez-Lincoln High School Celebrates Veterans with Heartfelt Tribute

Krystal O. by Krystal O.

“Honoring Service: Juarez-Lincoln High School Celebrates Veterans with Heartfelt Tribute”
Juarez-Lincoln High School held a Veterans Day event to honor those who have served in the armed forces. RedWolves who are in the school’s JROTC program participated in the ceremony. Veterans in attendance were presented with certificates noting their branch of service, rank, and a commemorative medal.

Veterans Day, observed annually on Nov. 11, recognizes the sacrifices of millions who have served in the military, many of whom faced significant challenges while protecting the nation. Among the honorees was Elma Ordoñez, an aviation ordnanceman third-class petty officer who served five years in the U.S. Navy.

“Boot camp was cold, with sleepless nights and early mornings. It was physically and emotionally challenging, but also an educational and fulfilling experience,” Ordoñez said.

During her service, Ordoñez was deployed to provide aid in Puerto Rico following a devastating hurricane. She recounted helping load helicopters with food and water for residents, while others on her ship assisted in rebuilding damaged homes.

“I felt good being able to be there and help out the people,” Ordoñez said.

Ordoñez also spoke of her time in the Navy as an opportunity to connect with people worldwide and explore various places. She was stationed in Japan, Brazil, and Spain, as well as Hawaii, Florida, Virginia, and Washington.

“I recall the day my service ended because it was the day I could finally return home. It was bittersweet—both a happy and a sad moment,” she said. “What I miss most about my time in the Navy are the travel, the companionship, and the breathtaking views.”

Posted inEducation

Finding motivation through your passion.

Isabella S. by Isabella S.

Passion can be about anything; it is the same for motivation. Mr. Noel Martinez finds his job to be something he is passionate about.
“Working with my students, I think seeing them accomplish certain things is very satisfying. An example of this is our TAFE kids. When they compete in area and state and practice and work very hard, they advance, making me very proud of them.” Martinez said.
Seeing this, Martinez is very proud of them and wants them to be successful and continue to achieve more. Helping them out makes him passionate about his career and ensuring they gain everything.
“I am passionate about my career, and by helping my students be successful, I am also successful,” Martinez said.
Aside from his passion for his career, he also finds hobbies and activities that motivate him.
“Another thing that keeps me motivated is finding things to do outside work. Having something to look forward to during vacation days or breaks can detach me from work and give a personal motivation,” Martinez said. 
While he loves his career, Martinez finds new things to do to help him take a break from his job and be motivated to do the best he can to help students achieve their goals. His motivation comes from his students; he wants them to try their best and be the people who give them that support.