Former PSJA educator to speak on published book

The Pharr Memorial Library will host a book presentation and signing Saturday for a former PSJA educator who left a positive impact for the district.

Reynaldo L. Martinez Jr., Ph.D., was an instructor for PSJA-TV back in 1978. The vocational TV production program had Martinez guiding students through courses to help prepare them on a professional level for the job field, but as well as help better themselves on a personal level. For about 10 years, Martinez led his students to increase their chances on having successful careers and lives.

So, what does one do to celebrate this achievement? They write a book of course.

Although PSJA was not the first TV production unit in the Valley, he said that it was the first to go through the vocational program (now CTE).

“We were very, very successful when I was there, and my students just excelled in all forms of competition and leadership and we were a very high-profile program,” he said. “And I had always thought that their accomplishments and everything that the program did for the district was something really special.”

Martinez said that he has compiled a collection of photographs, newspaper articles and memorabilia which turned into the book. A book that he said he wishes to share with the public.

“I always had in my mind that I wanted to share that story and now, you know, 45, 40 years later, I think it’s a good time to bring that back and hopefully, people will remember and appreciate, you know, what those students did.”

The event will start at 1 p.m. at the Pharr Memorial Library.