Local student gets first GenYes certification statewide

The first student in Arizona to receive a Generation Yes certification is from Crane Middle School. Tyler Martinez, an 8th grader, was awarded the certification by Yuma County Superintendent, Tom Tyree this morning. Although students on the east coast have been certified, Tyler is the youngest student in the entire country to ever meet the GenYes certification standards. T he program allows students with interests in technology and leadership to help their peers and teachers, in hopes of closing the digital gap between generations. Tyler says, “I have to say it feels pretty good. I feel really special. It just feels amazing to know that I made history. I’ve always wanted to be in the Guinness World Records, and I feel like I’m doing that in my own way.” In order to receive his certification, Tyler was required to help at least 25 teachers and put in at least 15 hours of work. He also had to demonstrate a high level of communication and leadership skills in interviewing with Generation Yes administrators.