Juanita Martinez Rocha, Community Representative

Juanita Martinez Rocha joined our Board of Directors last year! Juanita is a retired educator who supports and serves our students and community in many ways. Not only is she part of our Board, but she has also lent her expertise to the Hispanic Women of Weld County, the Mexican American History Project Greeley, The Friends of a Woman’s Place, and countless other causes. Juanita’s dedication and insight have been instrumental in helping us support student success, and we are so thankful to have her on our Board!

What is your favorite part of serving on the Board of Directors?

I have to say up to this point in time, having the opportunity to serve on Scholarship Committee has been my favorite part of serving on the Board of Directors. It was an honor to be entrusted with personal information about the students. It was an invaluable experience to read about their successes and challenges, as well as their resilience and determination. The interview process enabled me to hear the amazing, touching stories of these very qualified and deserving students.

What influenced you to serve on the Board for the Dream Team?

I have always admired the work that the Dream Team does for our students. The Mission of empowering students from diverse backgrounds and building relationships aligns with my beliefs. I wanted to be a member of the Board to witness the dreams of those diverse students become a reality.

What does it mean to you (personally and/or professionally) to serve on the Board?

After I retired from District Six, I missed the interaction with my students. I had a strong desire to continue to help make a difference for students and their families. The Greeley Dream Team BOD graciously provided me with the opportunity to do this. I am very proud to be a part of a Board that puts the needs of students at the forefront.

What advice would you give a Dream Team student who one day wants to work in your field?

I would advise a Dream Team student to pursue their desire to teach. The rewards of teaching far outweigh the hard work. A career in teaching enables you to guide and assist with the development of a child’s own assurance in believing that they are capable of anything if they believe in themselves. A teacher builds meaningful relationships with students and parents. Your students’ successes become your successes. You cannot put a price on the realization that you made a positive impact in the life of a child.

What did you study in college?

My course of study was education. I earned a BA in Social Sciences with an endorsement in Linguistic Diverse Education and an emphasis in ESL. I earned my MA in Interdisciplinary Education.

What inspired you to work in your field?

I have always had an aspiration to help students learn and grow. My hope was to encourage my students to embrace their culture, language, and customs. It was important for me to become a positive role model for my diverse students. I chose to teach in a school where students could see someone who looked like them.

What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?

In my free time, I like to stay active. I love listening to music and dancing to all genres. I like attending Zumba. I enjoy meeting with my book club. I love to travel. Most of all, I am passionate about spending time with family and friends. It is important for me to give back to my community through volunteerism.