Marten previously served as the superintendent of San Diego Unified School District from 2013 until her confirmation as deputy secretary in May 2021.

[7] For 10 years she worked at Central Elementary School in City Heights.

As a teacher, instructional leader, and later as principal, she placed an emphasis on social and emotional learning and the arts, combined with academics.

[7] In 2013, Marten became the superintendent of San Diego Unified School District.

[8] Marten's nomination by President Joe Biden to be deputy secretary of education was submitted to the United States Senate on February 22, 2021,[1] and confirmed by the Senate on May 11, 2021, by a 54–44 vote.