This week on Teacher Tuesday, we spotlight Marci Koch, a passionate educator with a diverse teaching background and a deep commitment to fostering a love for learning. Let’s explore Marci’s journey, her teaching philosophy, and what makes her a vital part of the A One-Room Schoolhouse community.
Meet Marci Koch: An Educator with a Diverse Background
Marci holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a minor in music (2010) and a Master’s degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) (2020). Her strong educational foundation, combined with her diverse experience, allows her to connect with students of all ages and backgrounds.
Marci Koch brings 11 years of classroom teaching experience to A One-Room Schoolhouse. She has taught 4th grade in public schools and 1st-4th grades in a charter school focused on ability-grouped math. Her teaching experience spans K-12 tutoring in math, reading, and test preparation, as well as teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) to adults and international students. Additionally, Marci has experience as a TA for First-Year Writing courses, focusing on providing dynamic written corrective feedback. She has also taught an Intensive English Program covering speaking, reading, writing, and grammar. Beyond the classroom, Marci has given private cello lessons to children and teenagers and has volunteered extensively in Sunday school classes.
What Inspired Marci to Become a Teacher?
Marci’s inspiration to teach comes from her grandfather, a beloved teacher and principal known for making everyone feel like the most important person in the room. His ability to connect deeply with individuals guides Marci in her teaching philosophy—focusing on each student as a unique person, not just a lesson to be taught. Even though her grandfather passed away before she was born, Marci feels a strong bond with him and is determined to carry on his legacy.
As a child, Marci and her sisters often “played school,” where she naturally assumed the role of the teacher. Her love for sharing knowledge led her to pursue a degree in elementary education, and she continues to find joy in helping students of all ages learn to love the process of learning itself. She believes that God has given us endless things to discover, and every new piece of knowledge only reveals how much more there is to learn.
Subjects and Grades Taught at A One-Room Schoolhouse
At AORSH, Marci teaches a range of subjects, including:
- Pennsylvania history for middle and older students
- STEM
- Survival Nature Studies
- ELA and Math for older students
In the past, she has taught French, music, art, science, and world history, covering topics from ancient Rome to the Reformation, the history of the Bible, the Civil War era, and modern history.
What Drew Marci to A One-Room Schoolhouse?
Marci is a firm believer in educational choice, recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning. She loves how AORSH reimagines education, combining the best aspects of classroom learning with the flexibility of homeschooling. She appreciates the emphasis on outdoor movement, limited technology for young students, and the faith-based environment where prayer and spiritual growth are encouraged.
AORSH focuses on the good and beautiful things in the world, allowing families to address more challenging topics in ways that are aligned with their values. Marci finds this approach refreshing and empowering for both students and parents.
Marci values how AORSH helps families find the best fit for their educational needs, offering a blend of consistency and flexibility that benefits both children and their families. The community is deeply supportive, fostering an environment where everyone—teachers, parents, and students—plays a role in the learning process.
Marci thrives in an environment that values hands-on learning, outdoor activities, and a community-centered approach
I haven’t learned that …. YET!
Marci’s classroom is infused with her personal mantra: “I haven’t learned that…YET.” This phrase encourages students to embrace challenges with enthusiasm, knowing that they can learn and grow over time. She has witnessed students cheering each other on and quoting Philippians 4:13 (“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens us”), which has become a powerful affirmation in her classroom, starting with a kindergartener and spreading to older students.
Some of Marci’s favorite teaching moments involve outdoor lessons, from building models of ancient Roman roads to reenacting Civil War battles through games. She loves seeing the “light bulb” moments when students grasp a new concept or gain confidence in their abilities.
Marci has seen students gain confidence in various areas, including friendships, problem-solving, reading, and leadership. The hybrid model helps build not just academic skills but also life skills, encouraging students to become confident in their abilities and their faith.
Staying Motivated and Inspired
Marci stays inspired by spending time outdoors, digging into new curriculum ideas, prioritizing her faith and family, and building strong connections with her students. Professional development and collaboration with other educators also keep her energized and passionate about her work.
Goals and Aspirations for the Upcoming School Year
Marci is excited about fostering unity within the Schoolhouse community. She envisions everyone “lifting where we stand,” contributing their best efforts within their roles—whether as teachers, parents, or students—to inspire and support one another.
This year, Marci is particularly excited about teaching a STEM class that will include an introduction to 3D printing. She has been learning about the process herself and is eager to bring this innovative topic to her students. She’s also thrilled to have Mrs. Martin join the team to enhance the electives offered, following the interests of the students.
Hobbies and Interests
When she’s not teaching, Marci enjoys a wide range of hobbies, including house projects (where she’s apprenticed with her husband, recently learning how to wire lights), backpacking, rock climbing, and playing the cello. She currently performs with the Pittsburgh Philharmonic Orchestra and dreams of forming a string quartet again. Marci also loves sailing, paddle boarding, reading historical fiction, fantasy, and biographies, diving into the world of 3D printing, and tackling escape rooms filled with puzzles and riddles.
Marci Koch’s dedication to education, her students, and the AORSH community is evident in her passion for teaching and her commitment to creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment. Her diverse experience and love for learning make her a cherished member of the Schoolhouse family.
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