Oak Crest Elementary dyslexia specialist named KSAT’s Educator of the Month

Martha Perez, a bilingual dyslexia specialist at Oak Crest Elementary School in the East Central Independent School District, was named KSAT’s Educator of the Month for October, recognizing her work helping students build confidence and strengthen their reading skills.

Perez has worked for East Central ISD for 20 years and has served as a bilingual dyslexia specialist at Oak Crest for about six years. In her role, she works with English- and Spanish-speaking students who struggle with reading, helping them develop skills she says can change their lives.

“I feel that it’s just a dream job for me,” Perez said. “That’s why I feel like it’s a calling, and to be able to get to work with students that struggle with reading and be able give them the gift of reading is just a beautiful experience.”

Perez said one of the most rewarding parts of her job is watching students grow and understand that dyslexia does not define what they can achieve.

“I talk to them about different people that have had dyslexia or been struggling readers, a real-life example, so that way they can feel successful,” Perez said. “They know that there’s nothing that can stop them but themselves.”

Perez said her brother, who is also an educator, helped inspire her to become a teacher after seeing her work with children.

“I was volunteering with my Bible school, teaching children, and my brother said, ‘Hey, it looks like you love to work with kids. You should go back to school to be a teacher,’” Perez said.

Her impact on campus goes beyond reading instruction. Perez is also known at Oak Crest for creating colorful banners for school events.

“I don’t know how I got into making banners, but it just brightens up whatever event we have,” she said.

KSAT’s Educator of the Month recognizes outstanding educators nominated by viewers throughout the school year. KSAT will continue honoring a new educator each month.

Read also:

• Nominate a Hometown Hero: KSAT Educator of the Month Is Back!