Sleeping in has its advantages, but for several students at Morningside Elementary there’s something a lot more enticing in the early hours of the morning that compels them out of bed.

For several years, Master Martin, as Morningside students and staff know him, has been teaching Tae Kwan Do twice a week before school begins. About 40 kids a year train under him, even during the summer months.

“Antonio teaches the physical and emotional discipline that builds our kids in important ways,” said Morningside Principal Tod Cracroft.

Master Martin’s instruction has helped students learn lessons of respect, hard work, self-defense, and service to others. It’s no surprise for Morningside students to hear he was selected to receive the KSL/Zions Bank Teacher Feature Award.