The Panther: Firstly, thank you so much for taking the time to have this conversation with me. Can you please tell me your full name and your position on staff?
Martin: I am Donnie Martin and I am one of the head security monitors here at Miami Palmetto Senior High.
The Panther: Okay, so everyone knows of your long impact on MPSH’s community. How exactly did you start here? How long ago?
Martin: I started here 26 years ago. I actually started my teaching career over at Palmetto’s Middle School for coaching basketball then they eventually brought me here to the high school to start coaching football and track.
The Panther: Did you coach both boys and girls?
Martin: Yes.
The Panther: So, how do you think you foster a positive environment for your students, both on and off the court?
Martin: I try to instill hard work and dedication in all my students — both males and females. I want to teach them lessons that they can remember even after they graduate. I think I shape my students into model wives and husbands.
The Panther: That is awesome. What is one thing you think about the school that has remained constant over the years, despite the physical and social changes?
Martin: This school has always been high on education so I’m really big on that. No matter what my sports kids are doing, I push education first all the time.
The Panther: I agree, education is equally as important as their sports performance. So, looking back, what do you wish students knew about what goes on behind the scenes at school?
Martin: I just wish they knew the hard work the staff puts in to get them to graduate and the hard work we put in as coaches to get games taken care of. I would have loved it if it was more voiced about the hard stuff staff has to do in general because most students tend to overlook it and paint us as annoying or even mean.
The Panther: What do you hope for the future of MPSH after you retire?
Martin: I just hope the success continues and I become part of the legacy at one point.
The Panther: Of course. Lastly, What advice would you give to students who are looking to make the most of their experience?
Martin: I would tell them to get involved in something whether it be sports, clubs or really just anything. Don’t just come here, you know? MPSH has a lot to offer and if you don’t find what you are looking for, the different types of kids and experiences make it worth it.
