Meet Marin Jewell
Teaching Position
Resource Room teacher Grades 4-6
District
Westfield Charter Academy
After 16 years in general education, Marin expanded her impact through special education and now serves as a resource room teacher supporting students in grades 4–6 at Westfield Charter Academy. Through strong routines, meaningful literacy instruction, and individualized support, she helps students build skills, confidence, and a love of learning.
What was your role before joining Talent Together, and what inspired you to join the program?
Before joining Talent Together, I served as a general education teacher for 16 years and as an academic specialist for one year. I am now a resource room teacher for grades 4–6 at Westfield Charter Academy, where I am finishing my second year in this role and currently support a caseload of 19 students.
What are some of your favorite instructional activities or routines you’ve been using?
One of my favorite activities is doing book clubs with instructional-level texts where I can focus on grade-level and instructional-level standards and skills at a variety of reading levels. Students LOVE reading and discussing together, and it makes things more interesting and fun.
Are there any strategies, tools, or practices from your coursework or Apprenticeship that you’ve carried into your own classroom?
I have always believed in the importance of routine and consistency, and that has proven even more essential in special education. That is something my professor, Dr. Yates at Alma College, emphasized often. Through my preparation, I also learned how to write effective Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and ensure the Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP), accommodations, and goals align so students receive the support they need and continue making progress.