Marissa Birke
Early Childhood Educator | Illustrator
Teaching Philosophy
I believe in creating memorable, hands-on, engaging lessons to optimize student learning. It is important to me to collaborate with diverse groups to innovate and achieve the highest standards of teaching. I am committed to continuous professional growth and advocating for all students' success and wellbeing. I am a divergent thinker with a passion for educating the whole child.
Hello!
My name is Marissa Birke, and I am a mama of three kiddos ages 7, 9, and 10. I grew up in Buffalo, New York, and now reside in the Rochester area.
I have worn many hats in my professional and personal endeavors. We were a homeschooling family until the 2021-2022 school year. I have homeschooled grades kindergarten-4th. I have classroom experience teaching grades pre-k, kindergarten, 1st, and 3rd. I've worked in daycares, and have recently been a nanny. In 2017, I established a small art studio business where I designed and taught lessons to share my passion for creativity with children. The studio was an incredible chapter in my life, but sadly, we closed shop in 2020 due to COVID-19.
I am currently a long-term substitute teacher, teaching 4-6th graders. I love being back in the classroom! I hope to find a teaching position for the upcoming school year to fully reintegrate into the education realm!
Professional Experience
Background & Expertise
Long-term Substitute Teacher
September 2022 - Current
Adapt to different classrooms each day to instruct 4th-6th graders in all subjects and special areas. Strives to make a positive impact with students.
Substitute Teacher
February 2022 - June 2022
Implement plans provided by teacher while infusing personal teaching style to adapt to student needs.
The Pickled Paintbrush, LLC Owner | Teacher
July 2017 - July 2020
Established company from a foundation of visionary endeavors and a goal for inspiring creativity. Designed and instructed art workshops, camps, and parties for children and adults. Founded Little Utopia Preschool within the business and taught children ages 2-4. Facilitated administrative duties.
Homeschool Program Art Teacher
September 2017 - May 2018
Planned and instructed kindergarten-8th grade art lessons for the Y's homeschool program. Supported and supervised primary class through guided play.
Elementary School Teacher
September 2008 - June 2012
Taught grades K, 1st, and 3rd in Charles County, Maryland. Planned and implemented thoughtful, hands-on, and developmentally appropriate lessons based on standards. Collaborated with colleagues and continued professional development throughout tenure. Formed meaningful and positive relationships with students and parents.
Education
Johns Hopkins University
M.S. in Education, Reading, May 2016
Cumulative GPA 3.98/4.00
Graduated with Maryland State Reading Specialist Certification
Buffalo State College
B.S. in Early Childhood Education, May 2008
Major Coursework GPA 3.44/4.00
Concretration in English
Certification
New York State Certified in
Early Childhood Education
(birth-2nd grade)
Currently working towards NYS ESOL Certification
Maryland State Certified in
Early Childhood Education
(birth-3rd grade)
Reading Specialist
Let’s Chat
"Do not go where the path may lead. Instead, go where there is no path and leave a trail"
Ralph Waldo Emerson
