7th Grade English Teacher and ASB Coordinator

Ever wonder what makes The School of Arts and Enterprise (The SAE) such a special place? As a tuition-free, audition-free arts charter school serving grades 6–12, The SAE is built on one simple belief: every creative voice deserves to be heard – and the incredible people here bring that belief to life every single day. We sat down with Mary Ortiz-Martinez, our 7th Grade English Teacher and ASB Coordinator, to learn more about her journey. Here’s what she shared!

What inspired you to become an artist?

Limitless creativity and no boundaries inspired me to become an artist when I was around 10 years old.

Who was your favorite teacher?

My favorite teacher was my second grade teacher because she saw me and made me feel validated as a student and a person. 

What advice would you give a student considering The SAE?

This school is a place that allows you to reach your dreams and any student that has the opportunity to attend will be given support to grow as an artist and a student.

What do you love most about teaching?

I love the impact I have on students’ lives and the connections I have made with students. A favorite student memory was my first year at The SAE. My favorite memory at this school is attending my students’ performances and watching them share their passions with the world. 

Talented, caring faculty serve our 6th-12th grade students with top-notch arts education in a tuition-free charter school environment. Ready to find your artistic home? Contact The School of Arts and Enterprise and enroll today.

About The SAE

The School of Arts and Enterprise (The SAE) is an audition-free and tuition-free arts charter school serving grades 6-12. Our campuses are located in the Pomona, CA Arts Colony, surrounded by a thriving professional arts community. We offer nationally-recognized, award-winning arts education and creative entrepreneurship for young artists through project-based learning and flexible block scheduling. Students are supported by a close-knit community that values creative expression and celebrates differences. Join The SAE today! Enrolling now.