Student Spotlight: Martha Encinas
Every weeknight, you’ll find Martha Encinas stepping off the Sun Bus and heading into her ESL class at Coachella Valley Adult School. At 72 years old, Martha is working toward a goal she’s carried in her heart for a long time — learning to read, write, and speak English.
Martha joined the Level 1 ESL class last fall, bringing with her a lifetime of experience. Back in Mexico, she ran her own carnicería (meat market) for many years, juggling the responsibilities of business ownership with raising four children. She’s now a proud grandmother.
Life hasn’t always been easy. A few years ago, Martha suffered a stroke — a major challenge that could have slowed her down. But not Martha. With quiet determination, she pushed through recovery and got back on her feet, stronger and more motivated than ever.
From her very first day in class, she’s shown incredible dedication and energy. Her classmates quickly noticed her kind nature and positive attitude. Whether she’s practicing new words or encouraging others, Martha is always engaged and eager to help those around her.
She reminds us all that it’s never too late to learn something new — and that courage and perseverance can take you far. We’re proud to have Martha at Coachella Valley Adult School
Student Spotlight: Blanca Zavala
Student Spotlight: Blana ZavalaSELF-DOUBT, PERSISTENCE, TRAGEDY, AND A BRIGHT FUTURE Blanca Zavala left Coachella Valley High School at the age of 18 with only five credits. Her parents worked tirelessly to make ends meet, and many people around her doubted her...
Student Spotlight: Yuriana Gutierrez
Student Spotlight Yuriana GutierrezCoachella Valley Adult School Yuriana Gutierrez was enrolled in the High School Independent Studies Program in March 2025. She needed to complete the final 15 credits required for her high school diploma. Despite having significant...
Student Spotlight: Bertha Zuñiga
Student Spotlight: Bertha ZuñigaCoachella Valley Adult School Bertha Zuñiga is a true example of resilience and persistence. At the age of 44, she enrolled in the High School Independent Studies Program on January 7, 2024. Thanks to the Adult School’s childcare...
Student Highlight: Maria Carmen Gutierrez
Student Highlight: Maria Carmen GutierrezCoachella Adult School Coachella Valley Adult School takes delight in presenting this week’s special feature among our adult education students: Maria Carmen Gutierrez! Carmen originally came from Sinaloa (popularly known as...
Student Spotlight: Rodolfo Arana
Student Spotlight: Rodolfo AranaCoachella Valley Adult School Rodolfo Arana, a dedicated Level 1 ESL student at the Coachella Valley Adult School’s West Shores satellite class, exemplifies the true spirit of perseverance and hard work. By day, Rodolfo works at a date...
Name of Student: Josefina Campos
Student Highlight: Josefina Campos Coachella Valley Adult School We are excited to highlight Mrs. Josefina Campos as one of Coachella Valley Adult School’s student-of-the-week. Although Josefina misses her hometown of Jalisco, Guadalajara in Mexico, she is happy...
Teacher Spotlight: Shan Fu
Teacher Spotlight: Shan FuCoachella Valley Adult School When Shan Fu walks into her classroom at Coachella Valley Adult School, she brings much more than a lesson plan — she brings life experience, resilience, and a deep understanding of what it means to pursue...
Student Spotlight: JOANA SALDANA
Student Spotlight: JOANA SALDANACoachella Valley Adult School This week, Coachella Valley Adult School appreciatively highlights Joana Saldana’s path to adult education which started last May 2024. Hailing from San Luis Potosi, Mexico, Joana moved to the USA...
Teacher Highlight: Mr. Isaac Preciado
Teacher Highlight: Mr. Isaac Preciado At Coachella Valley Adult School, we are honored to highlight Mr. Isaac Preciado, a dedicated educator whose life journey is a powerful testament to resilience, service, and the life-changing impact of second chances.A Full-Circle...
