It Runs in the Family

Mrs. Magee graduated from DRHS and is now working at Desert Ridge. She is expecting and is looking forward to the new addition to the family. Her mother, Ms. Martinez, also teaches at the school and is even more excited for the baby! We took some pictures and asked them some questions:

Mrs. Magee Questions and Answers:

Where did you go to college after you left Desert Ridge?

I went to Northern Arizona University after graduating from DRHS.

Where did you teach before you came to DRHS?

I first taught at DRHS for a semester in 2021, then Highland High, then DRJHS before coming back to DRHS.

What is it like to be able to work at the same school as your mom?

It is amazing! It is so nice to have another math teacher to bounce ideas off and get insights about the profession from.

What inspires you?

My family inspires me. More specifically, my Mom inspired me to work in mathematics.  

Coffee or tea?

Before pregnancy, I was a big tea drinker, but since being pregnant, I have been drinking coffee exclusively.  

Concert or sports game? 

I guess concerts? Though I prefer musicals over either of the two.

Ms. Martinez's Questions and Answers:

What states have you taught in before coming to DRHS?

Washington

What advice would you give to a young teacher just starting out teaching? 

I would advise young teachers to focus on their students and the joy that comes from working with them.  The bureaucracy can be daunting, but the joy you get from teaching far outweighs the downside.  

How does it feel to have both your daughter and your grandchild here at school? 

I feel blessed every day to get to spend so much time with my daughter while she is pregnant!  It is so fun to watch her belly grow as she nears her due date.  Brings back all the memories I have of being pregnant with her back in 1999.  

Did you expect to be having your daughter working with you when she graduated HS?

I never imagined I would get to work with my daughter.  I knew she wanted to teach math, but I never imagined teaching together.  It has been so much fun!  

What are you looking forward to the most about being a grandmother?

I am already head over heels in love with this baby!  I can’t wait to spoil it!  Of course, I will be teaching it to play cards.  

What inspires you?

Positivity!

Favorite Song?

Beautiful Soul Jesse McCartney

Favorite place to visit? 

That is a hard one!  I love to travel.  I am happiest when I am getting on an airplane.  I love traveling abroad, I love visiting the beach, and I love visiting friends and family.   Right now…  my favorite spot is Oregon… to visit my sister. 

Random fun fact…  My daughter’s grandpa on her dad’s side was also a math teacher.   Mr. Lwanga taught junior high math.  He was my math teacher in 7th, 8th & 9th grade.  Math is in Alea’s blood!