Who’s Who in Benicia: Teacher Mary Fritz

Where are you from? Redwood City

Where did you go to school? I went to Sequoia High School, where I was involved in student government and was a cheerleader, voted "Most School Spirit". I graduated from UCSB in 1977 and studied for a semester in Madrid, Spain.

How did you get into teaching? Almost every job I had involved working with kids-- I was a lifeguard and swim instructor as well as a high school math tutor. I got my teaching credential at Cal State Hayward in 1978, the same month that Prop 13 passed and the job outlook for teaching was dismal. 

How did you end up in Benicia? There was a program just for training middle school teachers. I was lucky enough to be recommended for an interview at __. Debbie Buchanan (from __) was in my program and lived in Benicia. She had me check it out; it was love at first sight. I was hired to teach English and math. 

How long have you been teaching here? I am now in my 34th year of teaching at Benicia Middle School, and have witnessed tremendous changes over the years. 

What do you teach? I have taught English, Spanish, and math during my tenure. For the past 15 years I have taught eighth grade math and algebra exclusively. 

What do you love about your job? One of the aspects of my job that I value the most is working with my colleagues-middle school teachers are a special breed. They are open, supportive, and young-at-heart. A sense of humor and flexibility are definite pluses when working with adolescents, who always keep us on our toes! 

Do you have any advice for your students? Try not to grow up too quickly, but to appreciate where you are in life. Explore your talents, and don't get too locked into being popular or cool. Seize opportunities that present themselves, participate in activities that appeal to you at school, work hard, but foster your friendships. 

Do you have children? My two kids were raised here. Both are pursuing careers in education. My daughter Amy, 26, is a school psychologist in the San Carlos Elementary School District. My son Will, 22, is in the teaching credential/master's program at UC Davis. 

What do you do for fun? My husband Jim, (a retired clinical psychologist) and I spend a lot of time working out, walking our beagle downtown and enjoy traveling to great snorkeling destinations such as Mexico and Honduras. I am also quite possibly Benicia's biggest SF Giants fan-- just ask my students about the shrine of Giants paraphernalia in my classroom or my extensive wardrobe of orange and black!

How many Benicia kids have you taught in 34 years? Thousands- my oldest students are now in their 40's- and it is a wonderful feeling to be so connected to the town I live in. I have many second-generation students in my classes now, and it gives me a real kick to see their parents at school functions. Teachers are fortunate to have the opportunity to be a part of so many lives.