TOC II Spotlight: Interview with Jason Martinez, Pace University Student
We featured this MBK TOC II spotlight in our .
From Shy Student to Future Educator: How the MBK TOC II Program is Shaping Tomorrow鈥檚 Leaders
When he first joined听NYSMBK听as a high school junior in Yonkers, Jason Martinez was soft-spoken and unsure of his voice. Today, Jason is a confident college freshman at Pace University, preparing to become a teacher who will inspire and uplift the next generation. His journey is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of the 色中色 My Brother鈥檚 Keeper听Teacher Opportunity Corps II (TOC II)听program.
Finding His Voice Through MBK
MBK was the first step in Jason鈥檚 evolution. 鈥淚 feel like I learned a lot of skills,鈥 he reflects. 鈥淢aking all those connections with everybody really helped.鈥 MBK gave Jason the confidence to speak up, to lead, and to believe in his potential. It also introduced him to mentors who would become pivotal in his life, especially Greg Joyner, the Yonkers MBK program coordinator, whom he affectionately describes as a 鈥済randpa figure鈥 always cheering him on from the sidelines.
TOC II: A Deeper Dive into Education and Equity
Since joining the TOC II program at Pace University, Jason has gained more than just academic support鈥攈e鈥檚 developed a deeper understanding of what it means to be a teacher of color. 鈥淚鈥檝e learned that your perspective is very important,鈥 he says. Monthly seminars and peer collaboration have opened his eyes to the unique challenges and opportunities in education, especially in underserved communities. 鈥淭OC has definitely helped me more on the teacher aspect,鈥 he explains, 鈥渆specially learning how to connect with families from different backgrounds.鈥
The program has also provided tangible support, covering the cost of books, offering mentorship from upperclassmen and graduate students, and fostering a strong sense of community. Jason was even accompanied to Albany by Dr. Angela White, Director of the TOC II program at Pace University. 鈥淚t鈥檚 not just one of those clubs where you speak and never see each other again,鈥 Jason says. 鈥淭hey check in on us. Dr. White is always making sure we鈥檙e okay.鈥
Mentorship That Makes a Difference
Mentorship has been a cornerstone of his success. From Mr. Joyner鈥檚 heartfelt texts to Dr. White鈥檚 ongoing support, he鈥檚 felt seen, heard, and valued. 鈥淗aving mentors that are just in your back corner鈥 that you have their undivided attention鈥攊t feels so great,鈥 he shares.
Paying It Forward
As he looks ahead to his future in the classroom, Jason is determined to pass on the support he has received. 鈥淧art of being a teacher is being very nurturing,鈥 he says. 鈥淎ll students come from different walks of life鈥 I want to be able to give that support to my students as well.鈥
Jason's story exemplifies what is possible when young people are empowered with confidence, community, and care. TOC II is not just a program鈥攊t鈥檚 a launching pad for future leaders, educators, and changemakers.