Meet the Teacher

Hello, my name is Marion White. I am a licensed elementary school teacher with years of classroom experience. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (K-6) from the University of Kansas, along with an endorsement in Special Education and Middle School Mathematics. Later, I pursued a Master of Arts in Reading from Grand Canyon University. This past summer was spent in India, studying meditation and Ayurveda, a holistic system of medicine. By incorporating mindful practices into instruction, students develop stronger focus, engagement, and emotional regulation skills. 

My teaching career began in Kansas City as a special education teacher for 5th and 1st graders, where I received training in the Orton-Gillingham method. The past four years I have spent at Makakilo Elementary, teaching kindergarten and fifth grade. Through my time, I participated in dozens of professional development seminars, led by renowned educational researchers including, John Hattie and others. In my third year teaching at Makakilo, I presented my own professional development seminar on the student-centered math approaches I use in my classroom. 

Creating a safe and supportive learning environment is always the top priority. When students feel secure, they are more open to working through challenges and developing confidence in their abilities. A student-centered approach encourages pride in progress, fostering perseverance and resilience. Seeing children light up with excitement as they overcome obstacles and take ownership of their learning is the most rewarding part of teaching.

Lessons incorporate simple yet powerful strategies that build self-confidence. Encouraging students to explain concepts to each other (or even to the teacher) reinforces understanding, while praise is given for effort and persistence rather than just correct answers. Mistakes are treated as opportunities for growth, with guiding questions that lead students toward success. Above all, mental well-being remains at the heart of every session. Ensuring that each child feels valued, capable, and ready to thrive.