MAS Class of 2026 Senior Spotlight: Zai Reyes Martínez

“For my future plans, I intend to keep believing in myself, because no one else knows my potential better than I do.” That mindset has guided Zai Reyes Martínez during his years at Mission Achievement and Success Charter School. Zai enrolled in fall 2018 as a 5th grader, making him one of the 14 students in the Class of 2026 with the longest tenure at the school.

On campus, one of Zai’s biggest growth experiences came through soccer. As captain of the team, he says the role pushed him to become a leader and communicator. 

“Being captain pushed me to step up as a leader, communicate better with my teammates, and learn how to work with different personalities.” 

Zai also shared that professional soccer player Cristiano Ronaldo has inspired him. He says Ronaldo’s example of pushing forward through challenges helped him stay focused on his own potential.

When Zai reflects on what he liked best about attending MAS, he points to a daily structure that helped him manage commitments beyond the school day. He appreciated that the school did not assign homework, which gave him more time to focus on other important commitments in his life. He also says the teachers were supportive and approachable, and he felt they truly wanted students to succeed.

Zai’s advice to incoming freshmen is direct. He encourages students to be themselves and stay focused on their own goals. He also warns students not to give in to peer pressure and to think carefully about the choices they make each day. Zai says challenges are part of high school, and students get to decide for themselves whether they give up or keep pushing forward.

With that advice in mind, it’s no surprise that the most important lesson Zai says he learned in high school is how to value himself and build confidence through time alone. 

“I’ve learned about the importance of loving yourself and learning how to be alone. Being alone has helped me build the strength to work through challenges and better understand who I am. It doesn’t mean being lonely, it means growing, gaining confidence, and preparing myself to take advantage of the opportunities that come my way.”

After graduation, Zai will attend The University of New Mexico, where he will study physical therapy. He says he is excited to learn more about the field and work toward a career that allows him to help others improve their quality of life.

Looking 10 years ahead, Zai sees a full life built around family and meaningful work. He plans to be married with kids, own a home, and work as both a physical therapist and a mechanic. He says he wants a stable life where he can support his family while doing work he enjoys.

Zai credits his family with helping him stay grounded through the ups and downs of his middle school and high school journey. He says his mom, in particular, has always believed in him and encouraged him to follow the path he chose. He also says her persistence and dedication continue to inspire him to keep pushing toward his own goals.

Outside of school, Zai enjoys playing soccer and listening to music. He says both help him relax and clear his mind, as well as manage stress when life feels overwhelming.

Unlike many of his peers, Zai says he does not have a favorite restaurant. He prefers his mom’s home cooking, and his favorite dish she makes is gorditas de garbanzo. He says it is something he always looks forward to because it reminds him of home and family.

Zai Reyes Martínez leaves MAS with years of leadership experience, carrying with him a clear direction for college and a strong desire to keep growing. Everyone at MAS is proud of Zai and excited to see the future he builds in the years ahead!