April 5, 2022

To whom it may concern in the matter regarding Mrs. Lorina Fernandez,

I have had the pleasure of knowing Mrs. Fernandez for over twenty years. Lorina and I attended
the same K-8 school and even then, she was known for her strong work ethic, impeccable
character, and ability to collaborate well with others. More recently, I have had the opportunity
to become her mentor teacher in mathematics. I am absolutely honored to write on behalf of Mrs.
Lorina Fernandez. She is by far the most well-qualified, hard-working, organized, and self-
motivated individual I have ever had the pleasure of working with.
Lorina is a rare jewel in a world of river rock. She came from humble beginnings and worked
hard to put her husband through school, raise three very active girls in both school and sports, as
well as being a full-time in-home care-taker for her father-in-law. Lorina has an incredible heart
and in being everything to everyone else, she put herself on the back burner and now it is her
time to shine. Ready to take on the world of education, Lorina is ambitious and a team-leader
who takes all sides into account before making big decisions. She does whatever it takes to make
sure the job is done well and on time with a smile and a positive, uplifting, encouraging attitude.
She has set immense professional goals for herself and has the determination and internal drive
to surpass them all. There is no limit to what Lorina will accomplish in her lifetime.
Lorina is firm but fair and students appreciate the consistency of her behavior management
system. She is currently site lead for the Heart after school program in Visalia. She truly loves
her students and the adult leads that she directs; teaching for her is not merely a job, but a
passion. She is one who goes above and beyond the call of duty. Lorina is always looking for
creative new ideas for ways to make her lessons hands-on for her students so that the connection
they make with learning goes further than just what they need to know for a test. She works
tirelessly to make sure that students understand and make connections as a whole person. She
knows that life happens beyond her four walls and she knows each and every one of her students
as individuals; their home lives, friends, grades, and emotions. A testament to her is that her
students from last year often go to visit and catch up with her. She is one incredible woman.
For our students to grow and be successful, it is a must that every teacher works well with others
and has a positive attitude towards collaboration. We can teach collaboration, but if someone is
unwilling to work with others or has a negative attitude, there is no way to make it work. Lorina
makes it a point to seek out mentor teachers and ask questions. She comes prepared with
materials, ideas, and her can-do! attitude. Well-liked and appreciated by her students, colleagues,
and administration alike, Lorina is the reason her current site runs like a well-oiled machine.
Thank you for the opportunity to write about such an incredible educator. She is the asset your
team is looking for.
In respect and gratitude,
Tanya Hunter, M.A.
Math Coach
Pioneer Middle School, Porterville