EPISODE 12: RAPHAEL MARTINEZ

Raphael “Rafe” Martinez is an Executive Director at Albuquerque Sign Language Academy based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Previously, Raphael was a Director of Student Support at ACE Leadership High School and also held positions at West Mesa High School. Raphael received a Master of Secondary Education and Teaching degree from The University of New Mexico.

Raphael “Rafe” Martinez is a 30-plus-year educator who has experienced a variety of leadership opportunities. As a former classroom English teacher, head coach of multiple sports teams, dean of students, and current head of school for the Albuquerque Sign Language Academy (ASLA), Rafe has grown to understand and embrace the importance of strong, effective leadership in pursuit of organizational excellence. 

Taking several profound lessons from his diverse leadership experiences, Rafe has led the ASLA to national acclaim. The ASLA is regarded as a national leader in deaf and special education reform. It is the only state-certified ASL-English Dual Language School in the United States, serving deaf and hearing students through a highly inclusive and supportive learning program.

Additionally, the ASLA works closely with several national post-secondary partners to continually develop its innovative program. Partners include Penn State University, the University of Minnesota, the University of Arizona, New Mexico Highlands University, McLean Hospital (Harvard), and, of course, the University of New Mexico.