Tolleson Union High School District bestows the Employee of the Month recognition upon employees who have exemplified the vision, mission, and values of the district. These employees serve as an inspiration to others by showing a commitment to providing excellent customer service and making a positive impact on student achievement. Honorees enjoy breakfast with the district leadership team and are awarded a commemorative gift given during a governing board meeting.

Mr. Dave Martinez, Mechanic
District Office, Transportation Department
Nominated by Rosa C. Douglas, Bus Monitor, with a letter of support from Billy Wilson, Bus Driver

Ms. Douglas:

“Dave goes out of his way to help people when in need of assistance. For example, one day when I locked my keys in the car, he came to my rescue so that I could get home to do what I needed, and I was able to come back in time to do my afternoon run. Dave is resourceful and has saved the district money. The newer buses require an additive, DEF (diesel exhaust fluid); instead of buying an expensive piece of equipment to put the fluid in the buses, he used his innovative ability to set up the tank using things readily available in the shop.

Many times when he is busy doing his work, he will stop and help fix simple things on a bus, so that the bus driver does not have to go pre-trip another bus. This keeps the driver on time, and the students get to school safe and on time. There have been times when the bus has been worked on and for some reason, something else goes wrong or even the same problem. Dave will fix the bus in a timely manner. I feel that because of his workmanship and care, students and people get to their destinations safely and with less stress. For me, this shows excellence in customer service and has an indirect, positive impact on student achievement.”

Mr. Wilson:

I would like to recognize the efforts of a vital member of our transportation team; that person is Dave Martinez. Dave is one of our mechanics who diligently and faithfully supports the drivers by ensuring that to the best of his ability, when the buses leave the yard, they are safe and reliable. Often times when a driver identifies a problem during their pre-trip inspection and brings it to Dave’s attention, he is able to repair the bus and avoid the dreaded process of changing to another bus. Safe and timely transporting of our students is the top priority of the entire transportation team, and Dave is always willing to help the drivers achieve that goal. He is conscientious, knowledgeable, helpful, and very deserving of being recognized as Employee of the Month. He does not interact directly with the students, but from behind the scenes, his contributions are significant.”

When asked what three words best describe you, Ms. Douglas chose knowledgeable, caring, and resourceful.