Shenika Martindale's journey with Metro Schools began eight years ago when she joined Hickman Elementary as a paraprofessional. Under the exceptional leadership of Dr. Kimberly Fowler, followed by Chris Holmes and Patricia Johnson, Martindale's role evolved to focus on supporting students' academic success and well-being, expanding well beyond behavioral concerns.
In 2020, she transitioned to J.E. Moss Elementary as an advocacy coach, a role in which she is deeply dedicated to the academic, social, and emotional success of her students. As a vital link between students, families, and staff, Martindale works collaboratively to address challenges and foster positive outcomes.
Her responsibilities include mentoring, relationship-building, and providing resources, with the goal of ensuring students feel valued, understood, and supported throughout their educational journey.
"I am honored to be a part of the MNPS advocacy team, helping to create meaningful change," Martindale said. "I genuinely love what I do! Starting my day by welcoming students and parents during morning arrivals with a warm smile gives me a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Attitude is everything for success."
Martindale's smooth transition to the role of advocacy coach can be attributed to her experience as a paraprofessional at Hickman. Her long-standing relationships with many students and their families, formed through early-morning arrivals and after-school programs, were key to her success in this new role.
Her inspiration to pursue a career in education came from Dr. Nicole Robinson, a former physical education teacher at J.E. Moss who is now the assistant principal at Neely’s Bend K-8 School. Robinson once told Martindale, "Perception is everything – if you can see it, you can be it."
For Martindale, returning to college to earn her master's degree while juggling three jobs was a daunting challenge, but Robinson would often remind her, "Martindale, you make time for what you want." Robinson would check in almost daily, asking if Martindale had registered for grad school.
Reflecting on those conversations, Martindale shares, "Her words motivated me to further my education and make a meaningful impact on students' lives."
Putting Teamwork First to Support Students 
Martindale takes immense pride in being a part of the MNPS advocacy program, where she supports students facing challenges and strives to make a lasting impact. She’s grateful for the strong support of J.E. Moss’s executive principal, Carl Febles, and the rest of the “incredible” team there.
"Together, we embody the spirit of J.E. Moss – teamwork always comes first."
Martindale's philosophy for a fulfilling and successful career in education revolves around student learning, fostering a positive self-image, and creating opportunities for strong relationship-building – elements she finds essential to achieving student success.
Martindale holds a degree in Integrated Studies from Middle Tennessee State University and completed her graduate education at Colorado Technical University, earning a Master of Science in Business Management with a concentration in Organizational Leadership and Change.
Outside of her professional life, Martindale - who often goes by “Ms. Toi,” which is short for her middle name, Latoi - enjoys spending quality time with her two beloved Yorkies, Fendi and Coach. She admits her animals are a bit spoiled, but they bring endless joy to her life.