Educators are perhaps the greatest population of unsung heroes in Berrien and Cass County. This school year, Leader Publications will publish a weekly spotlight featuring teachers throughout the district, giving the community a chance to get to know the hard-working individuals shaping their children’s lives. Throughout the next school year, their answers will be published in the newspaper that serves each school district.

Name: Meredith Marrs

School: Dowagiac Middle School

Grade(s)/subject(s) taught: Seventh grade healthy living; seventh and eighth grade media literacy

Where did you attend college? Western Michigan University (bachelor’s degree) and Walden University (master’s degree)

How many years have you been teaching? How many years have you been with your current school? 17 years, all with Dowagiac

Why did you decide to become a teacher? I enjoy working with kids.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy doing for fun? Traveling, antiques and crafts.

What is one thing your students may not know about you? I was the grand marshal of a Disney World parade.

Who is your favorite fictional character and why? Hermione Granger [of the “Harry Potter” series]. [She is] fearless and intelligent.

When you were a student in the grade you teach, what were your favorite hobbies? Dance and cheerleading.

How would your co-workers describe your teaching style and personality? [My teaching style as] structured and fun. [My personality as] friendly.

Who is your biggest role model and why? Betty White. I love how she lives every day to the fullest with humility, humor and gratefulness.

How has education changed in the last 10 years? Technology has definitely changed the way I teach and how students learn.

What is your best advice to parents to help their child continue growing academically? Unconditional support at home helps students be successful in the classroom.

If my students learn one thing this year, I hope it is … To be courageous and never to be afraid to learn something new.