“Every day, every class, and every minute with students matters.”

Born and raised in Lake Tahoe, Seth Martin was inspired to making a lasting impact on the children in the community and be a positive role model. As a Physical Education Teacher at Bijou Community School, Seth teaches students from Kindergarten to 5th grade and works to support his fellow teachers in finding ways to incorporate movement opportunities in every classroom. Beyond his work as an award-winning educator, Seth is also the President of the Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (CAHPERD), a volunteer with Barton’s We Can! program, and an avid Tahoe adventurer.

Congratulations to this week’s 40 under 40 honoree, Seth Martin!

Can you tell us a little about your responsibilities and accomplishments in your current position?

I teach Physical Education to all students at my schools from K-5. I also helped support our teachers in finding ways to incorporate movement opportunities into the classroom. In 2010 I was recognized as the Governor’s Council on Fitness and Sport, Teacher of the Year which I received from former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. In 2018 I was awarded the California Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (CAHPERD) Elementary Teacher of the Year.

What has been your favorite professional moment in the last year?

I was elected President of CAHPERD my state professional organization that works to provide quality professional development for educators, and advocates for California’s professionals to be supported, and California’s students being provided quality Health, Dance, and Physical education opportunities.

Do you have a professional/life mantra that you live by?

Every day, every class, and every minute with students matters. I live for the ah ha moments when they do something they never have before or succeed in a skill they couldn’t do.

Who is your role model?

I don’t really have one, I respect anybody who puts their best into what they do especially when the motivation is to help others.

Why choose Tahoe to make your home and career?

Tahoe is where I was born and raised, I want to impact the students in this community and help their paths go in a positive direction.

Are you active in any volunteer roles or community groups?

I have served on the Parks and Recreation committee, I also worked with Barton and the We Can! program that promotes having students adopt healthy habits. I am also President of CAHPERD our state’s non-profit organization for Health, PE, recreation and Dance. Every year I organize the Elementary Track Classic for students at all of our Elementary schools.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?

I love enjoying Tahoe. Hiking, Kayaking, Skiing (cross country and downhill), Snowshoeing, etc.  I am lucky to live here and do my best to enjoy it.

Where are your favorite South Shore stomping grounds

Aleworx is a fun spot to hang out, Verde Mexican Rotisserie has my favorite breakfast bowl, I am semi- obsessed with Van Sickle trail it’s my go to hiking trail when friends from other places want to go hiking. Meyers is definitely my hood, you will see me walking my dogs most days out there.

Do you know a deserving young professional? Nominate them here.