Principal

Vanesa Martinez has been named Principal of Hancock Middle School for the 2022-2023 school year. Ms. Martinez received an Associate of Arts degree from Pearl River Community College, a Bachelor of Business degree, a Master of Education degree, and a Master of Science degree with an Educational Leadership endorsement all from William Carey University. Prior to being named principal, Vanesa served as an Assistant Principal at HMS for five years. She has also had the pleasure of serving in the roles of School Counselor, Special Education Teacher, and General Education fifth and sixth grade teacher.

As a lifelong resident of Hancock County, Vanesa attended grades 1st-10th in Hancock County School District, then received a scholarship to play basketball for Coast Episcopal High School in Pass Christian where she graduated. She is married to Henry Martinez Jr. Together they have two children, a son who will begin 10th grade and a daughter who will begin 8th grade this school year.

Vanesa’s philosophy of education is to never stop learning, be motivational, and develop a positive culture where learning will materialize. She is an Administrator, but an Educator first. It is her aspiration to maintain a positive learning culture within HMS by assisting staff and students in setting goals, being supportive, and leading by example.