After more than two decades of dedication to YES Prep, Angie Longoria is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering commitment, compassion, and service. Angie’s journey with YES Prep began in 1999 when she first became a parent volunteer at YES Prep Southeast. Little did she know that this act of volunteerism would lead to a fulfilling career, where she would touch the lives of countless students, families, and colleagues. 

Angie’s story is one of heart and community. She began by helping with summer programs and lunch services, stepping in wherever there was a need. She shares, "I was doing whatever was asked, or sometimes it wasn’t even asked – you just knew what needed to be done." This hands-on approach soon evolved into a deeper involvement as she worked part-time for the catering company serving YES Prep and eventually joined the staff full-time. 

A Community Built on Love and Support 

In her early days at YES Prep, Angie witnessed the passionate energy that the community had for the school. "I met the students of YES Prep that first year, and I wanted that for us. The energy, the community... everyone loved each other," Angie recalls. This sense of belonging resonated with her deeply, inspiring her to dive in fully and contribute to the organization’s mission of providing a top-tier education and preparing students for college and beyond. 

Angie was instrumental in building a tight-knit community, both inside the classroom and out. Whether it was her time as a part-time receptionist or helping manage the school’s after-school programs, Angie became the steady presence students, parents, and staff could rely on. As she reflects on those early days, she states, “Back then, we didn’t have all the fancy things we do now. We didn’t have requisitions—we just made it work. We fundraised, we cooked hot dogs, we served snow cones—whatever it took to ensure the students had what they needed.” 

A Heart for College Counseling 

Among her many contributions, one of Angie’s proudest roles was supporting the college counseling department. "Watching my two sons go through the college process and helping other students along the way—it was incredibly rewarding," she explains. She worked alongside Donald Kamentz, YES Prep’s College Counseling Director at the time, to guide students through the college application process, ensuring they had the tools and support they needed to succeed. These early experiences shaped her view of education and reinforced her belief in the importance of family involvement in the academic journey. 

A Sister's Reflection: A Legacy of Dedication and Pride 

Sonya Martinez, Angie’s sister, offers a heartfelt look into Angie’s journey at YES Prep. Reflecting on Angie’s early days as a parent volunteer, Sonya shares, “Her dedication was impressive. She did a lot of volunteer work. I remember her starting in the lunchroom, preparing snacks for maybe 200 or 300 students. She just loved being involved in the school that her son was attending.” 

This early commitment to YES Prep sparked a passion in Angie that would shape her life for over two decades. Sonya recounts a pivotal moment when Angie first introduced her to YES Prep: “I remember her coming home and saying, ‘I met this guy, his name is Chris Barbic, and he started a charter school called YES Prep.’ At first, we were all skeptical—temporary buildings and concrete everywhere—but Angie believed in it. She sold us the vision, and because of her, all six of my nieces and nephews, including her two sons, graduated from YES Prep and went on to attend four-year colleges.” 

Angie’s commitment extended beyond the classroom. As Sonya lovingly puts it, “Her wardrobe was a walking billboard for YES Prep. Everywhere Angie went, she had a YES Prep shirt on. She’d talk to people for hours, spreading the word about the school she loved. She truly believed in the mission, and her pride in YES Prep was undeniable.” 

A Lifetime of Memories and Dedication 

Reflecting on Angie’s retirement, Sonya acknowledges the bittersweet nature of this milestone. “It’s hard to think about her retiring because YES Prep has been her life for over 20 years,” Sonya says. “Whether it was the good days or the bad days, she was always talking about YES Prep. At times, we’d joke, ‘Can we just talk about something else?’ but her passion for YES never waned. She loved what she did, and it’s clear that her work will live on in all the students and families she helped.” 

Sonya’s words capture the essence of Angie’s tireless commitment and the love she put into everything she did for YES Prep. As Angie steps into retirement, Sonya’s message is clear: “Angie, sister, coworker, congratulations on your retirement. Enjoy it and do something you haven’t done in the last 22 years. Love you.” 

A Legacy That Will Continue to Inspire 

As Angie embarks on her well-deserved retirement, the impact she’s had on YES Prep is immeasurable. For over two decades, she has poured her heart and soul into the organization, supporting students, families, and staff with unwavering dedication. From her early days as a parent volunteer to her leadership role in campus operations, Angie has been a constant presence, guiding YES Prep through growth, challenges, and triumphs. 

Angie’s legacy will live on in the countless students she helped guide to success, the families she supported, and the colleagues who admired her passion and commitment. Her belief in YES Prep’s mission, her advocacy for education, and her tireless work will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to work alongside her. 

As Angie steps into the next chapter of her life, we celebrate not only her retirement but the lasting influence she leaves behind. From her walking billboard of YES Prep shirts to the heartfelt conversations she had with parents, Angie’s spirit will forever be woven into the fabric of YES Prep. 

Congratulations, Angie, on your retirement. Your impact will never be forgotten, and your legacy will continue to shape the future of our students and the YES Prep community for years to come. We wish you nothing but joy, relaxation, and the fulfillment of dreams beyond YES Prep.