Rito Martinez, M.Ed., is a seasoned educational leader with over 25 years of experience dedicated to transforming school culture and advancing equity. A former Golden Apple Award-winning teacher and the founding principal of Social Justice High School, Rito has deep roots in public education and a proven track record of strengthening leadership capacity within Chicago Public Schools and districts nationwide.

As a professional learning specialist with West40, Rito provides executive coaching to high-level education leaders, helping them implement high-impact initiatives and systemic change. His expertise in leadership development is further highlighted by his previous roles overseeing principal induction programs and supervising large cadres of executive coaches to accelerate school improvement and student success. Rito’s career is defined by his commitment to equipping leaders with the transformative coaching and racial healing tools necessary to foster inclusive, equitable environments.