Meet the CCSD Teacher: Marie Coleman of Sixes ES!

Our amazing teachers are Elevating The Excellence in our schools … and every week, you’ll get to know one of them better through a Q&A posted here. #CCSDElevateTheExcellence

Marie Coleman
Sixes Elementary School 
Fifth-grade teacher 

What’s the most innovative idea that you’ve tried in your classroom? 
I challenged my students to be teachers for a day.  They were required to write and submit lesson plans and then given the opportunity to run the class with their planned lesson.  The students did a phenomenal job and gained confidence in front of their peers as well as a newfound respect for the planning required of the teaching profession.   
Who is the best teacher you ever had and what made him or her special?
The best teacher I had was Ms. Morris in sixth grade — she brought history to life!  Our classroom was divided into Greek city states; we participated in the Olympics; we became pharaohs and made gold casts of our faces during our Egyptian studies, chalked the playground with murals and frescos while learning about Pompeii and more!  She went above and beyond to make our classroom exciting and engaging. 
What can parents do to prepare their children for learning?
Parents can prepare their children for learning by modeling learning themselves.  Discuss what you’re curious about with your children and how you find the answers to your questions.  Help them stay organized and prepared to start the day off on the right foot.  Read with your children daily, no matter their age!     
What are the obstacles to getting all kids to achieve?
One of the biggest obstacles to getting all students to achieve their potential is the lack of an at home support system.  This correlates directly with time management, task completion and organization.  As we educators continue to work on closing learning gaps, students must be present at school on a consistent basis to aid in overcoming this obstacle. 
#CCSDElevateTheExcellence