 | “As a former Chief of Police, I know that student safety is the foundation of a successful education. Children learn best when they feel safe, secure, and supported. James Martinez understands that responsibility. His experience as a School Resource Officer, combined with his years in law enforcement and public safety, gives him a unique understanding of how to create safe learning environments while building positive relationships with students, parents, and educators. Our schools deserve experienced leadership that puts the safety and well-being of our children first. I am proud to endorse James Martinez for the Rialto Unified School District Board of Education.” Randy DeAndaRetired Chief of Police Rialto Police Department |
ENDORSEMENT OF JAMES MARTINEZ
FOR RIALTO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION – DISTRICT 5
To the Residents of Rialto,
It is my honor to endorse James Martinez for the Rialto Unified School District Board of Education in the 2026 election.
James Martinez is a lifelong resident of Rialto whose life has been defined by service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to our community. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated integrity, courage, and a genuine passion for helping others.
As a former San Bernardino County RES-Deputy Sheriff, James served our community with distinction and was awarded the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Medal of Valor for extraordinary bravery in the line of duty. He also proudly served our nation in the United States Army, Operation Enduring and Iraqi Freedom OEF / OIF continuing a lifetime dedicated to protecting and serving others.
James’s commitment to our community extends far beyond his military and law enforcement service. Working in partnership with the San Bernardino County Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and the San Bernardino County Workforce Investment Board (WIB), he helped develop specialized vocational job training and certification programs that created direct pathways to employment in the security & public safety profession. This innovative program has provided young adults and military veterans with valuable career opportunities while inspiring many to pursue meaningful careers in law enforcement and public safety.
Equally important is James’s personal connection to our schools. As a graduate of the Rialto Unified School District, he understands firsthand the impact that dedicated teachers, strong schools, and community support can have on a student’s future. His family’s experience has also given him a unique appreciation for special education (SPED). James’s brother, David Martinez, was among the first students with special needs to attend the Rialto Unified School District. Growing up alongside David gave James a firsthand understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing students with disabilities and their families. That experience has instilled in him a deep respect for inclusive education and a sincere commitment to ensuring that every student has access to the support and opportunities needed to succeed.
James understands that great schools are built on accountability, transparency, student safety, academic excellence, and strong partnerships with parents, teachers, administrators, and the community. He brings decades of leadership experience, sound judgment, and a servant’s heart to everything he does.
Our students deserve leaders who are committed to doing what is right, who understand the importance of safe learning environments, and who will always place the interests of children first. James Martinez has devoted his life to serving others, and I am confident he will bring that same dedication, professionalism, and integrity to the Rialto Unified School District Board of Education.
I am proud to wholeheartedly endorse James Martinez for the Rialto Unified School District Board of Education, District 5, and I respectfully encourage the voters of Rialto to join me in supporting his candidacy.
Sincerely,
Ed Scott
Mayor Pro Tem
City of Rialto
