Mercedes Martinez Head Start Teacher Director

First Job: Cashier at Firebaugh Market

Birthplace: Fresno, California

Years at EOC: 26 years

Best advice ever received: “Bobby Ayer, my E.C.E at the time looked at me and said ‘Mercedes, you need to go back to school, and I did. Thank you Bobbie!’”

Favorite advice I give: “When your committed to anything you do work at making it your best and always give 110% of yourself.”

Favorite restaurant, dish, or pig-out food: Sizzlers and La Ventana

Proudest moment: The birth of my children: Mercedes, Ruben, Crystal and now my grandchildren.

Greatest personal accomplishment: The ability to work in the field of child development for many years and enjoying what I do.

Best vacation I’ve taken: “Padre Island in Texas. It’s beautiful!”

Favorite weekend activity: My husband and I like to drive around visiting family and friends.

Last good movie I saw: The Blind Side

Scariest experience: When my daughter and I were involved in an accident. The other driver ran a red light and my daughter was pregnant at the time.

If I had a million dollars I would … help as many people I can who are going through tragedies of life and struggling to get ahead. I would also take care of Mendota Head Start. I love my center.

Favorite place to shop: Ross, Walmart and Costco

Favorite childhood memory: Watching my father play the guitar under the stars and my mother singing their favorite songs.

Words that describe me best: non-stop, ongoing, perfectionist, caring, loving

I like to watch: Dancing with the Stars and American Idol

In my spare time … I like to go dancing to Tejano music and working my garden. I also care for my birds and dogs.

If I’ve learned one thing in life, it is … never take anything for granted, enjoy everyday like it’s your last and always say “thank you” for this day.