Agriculture
Heather Nolan, Department Chair
Ryan Coggins
This is my sixth year of teaching. I am the current welding instructor for the agriculture department. As an FFA advisor I co-coach the ag welding team and assist students in raising market lamb projects for the ag fest.
Amanda Martinez
Amanda Martinez is a dedicated and passionate educator at Manteca High School. With over 19 years of experience in teaching Agriculture Science including Agriculture Biology, Soil Science, Animal Sciences and Horticulture, she has been an integral part of the school’s academic community. Amanda holds a Master’s in Agriculture Education from Cal Poly, and she is committed to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students. Throughout her career, Amanda has been recognized for her innovative teaching methods and her ability to connect with students on a personal level. She believes in the power of education to transform lives and is dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Amanda is actively involved in Ag Department School Greenhouse, FFA activities, MUSD School Farm Honeybees and San Joaquin Ag Fest. She is passionate about her horses, her dachshunds and other animals which she often incorporates into her classroom to make learning more engaging and relevant. Amanda’s dedication to her students and her profession is evident in everything she does. She is a valued member of the Manteca High School community and continues to inspire both her colleagues and students alike.
Thomas Wood
I’m Thomas Wood, and I teach all the woodshop courses here at Manteca High School, as well as coaching our FFA welding team. I began teaching in 2023, but before that, I worked as a welder by trade—building everything from harvesting equipment to rocket ships. My goal as a teacher is to inspire students by sharing a trade they can use for a lifetime. I love helping students discover the creativity, skill, and confidence that comes from working with their hands.