On Jan. 17, Puyallup School District (PSD) Superintendent John Polm, Ferrucci Junior High Principal Stephanie Clarno and Assistant Principal Jaison Naiker, and Director of Instructional Leadership in Career and Technical Education (CTE) Maija Delaquin surprised teacher Paul Martin, awarding him as the 2022-23 PSD CTE Teacher of the Year.  

Annually, the PSD CTE Teacher of the Year is decided by a committee of district CTE staff and administrators, who selects a CTE educator in the district who they feel has the highest criteria of supporting students, colleagues and the community.

Martin, a PSD Employee since 2004 and teaching CTE in the district for eight years, says it's a huge honor to receive the award.

"I was shocked to see everyone in my classroom the day I was presented with this award," Martin said. "Every year, I see another colleague receiving this kind of recognition, and I always think, well, maybe someday."

Martin says he wants them to know that attending a university is not the only option to succeed after graduation.  

"I encourage all students to go to college, but realistically, not everyone will," Martin said. "There are so many great careers and jobs in the trade world. I want my students to know their opportunities after graduation and have some basic skills that will help them towards a productive life should they choose not to attend college."

Martin, along with other CTE educators in Pierce County, will be recognized at a special banquet later this year.

Watch below when Martin was surprised in class: