A Note from A Master Teacher

Bold, and Brilliant

Written by Marilyn Thompson

The Fish Philosophy

“I choose my attitude each day, bring a sense of play to my work, look for ways to make someone’s day, and stay fully present in every moment. It’s a simple mindset that helps me find joy, connection, and purpose, even in the most routine tasks.”

Inspired by the energy at Pike Place Fish Market in Seattle

As someone who has walked the halls of education for 42 years, I share this message not as a farewell, but as an invitation to continue to rise. Teaching is a gift. It is a God-given assignment. It is powerful as well as demanding. It is rewarding when done with purpose and conviction. Teaching is more than delivering content, it's an understanding that you're shaping minds, building character, and cultivating human potential, while transforming the simplest information into a powerful force that ignites curiosity and builds confidence, thus, creating change that leaves an imprint on both the heart and mind.

The Power of Strategy

One of the guiding principles I lived by was simple: "Work smart, not hard." It's not about cutting corners, but being strategic and intentional in both planning and practice. Good teaching didn't just happen. I had to plan, set clear goals, take time to get to know my students, and find ways to keep them engaged and connected. I stayed flexible, adjusted when things didn't go as planned, and kept an eye on their progress. The key is consistency. That consistent approach helped me build a classroom where learning was meaningful and children had a space to grow.

Your Presence Sets the Tone

I've always believed that a teacher's presence is an essential part of instruction as well. Our image speaks before words do, setting the tone the moment we walk in. When I entered the building vibrant, polished, prepared, and with bold confidence, it wasn't about me, it was about the message I sent. I modeled excellence by showing up as a teacher who offered her very best self to her students.

And yes they responded. They paid attention, respected the environment, and met the standards that were set for them. I wanted every child who stepped into my classroom to feel the spirit of love, and the warmth that I exuded each and every day.

Creating an Environment of Care

My classroom environment communicated the same message. It was inviting, affirming, and designed with students in mind. Every part of the room told them that they mattered. The space was for them. They belonged there. From culturally rich visuals to organized stations and welcoming corners, I created an atmosphere where students felt seen, supported, and motivated to succeed.

Grace for the Hard Days

Of course, every day wasn't easy. There were long days, difficult times, and moments when I didn't have all the answers. But I kept showing up. I showed up because I was loyal to my assignment and devoted to my students. God always gave me grace to keep going. Sometimes, just for that day and that was enough.

Leaving a Mark that Endures

As I step into my next season, I want to be remembered not just for the years I served, but for the lives I touched with love, wisdom, and a commitment to what I was called to do.

I am not leaving behind only memories but momentum. First and foremost, I want younger teachers to build on what I've learned. Remember, you don't have to be perfect. But be present. Be prepared. Be passionate. That’s what leaves a mark. That's what shapes lives. Love your students deeply. And never forget, you're not just teaching content, you're building lives and character.

Building a Legacy of Impact

We don't build strong schools alone; we build them together, teacher to teacher, classroom to classroom, heart to heart. Continue to uplift one another, uphold a standard of excellence, and lead with purpose. This work is not about perfection; it's about impact.

So, stand tall. Teach boldly. Lead beautifully. Let your presence be valued, and your example be a guide, especially in your community. Lastly, let your respect for the parents be rooted in partnership, empathy, and professionalism.

Your calling is great, and your teaching must be just as strong. It's okay not to have all the answers, but whatever you do, do it with all of your heart, as if you're doing it for God, and things will go well with you (Col. 3:23, Prov. 16:3).

The work goes on, and so does the legacy, in every classroom, in every child.