Get to Know Us

Every once in a while we sit down with a teacher or staff member at Placer Academy to ask them about their lives. The answers are always interesting, and sometimes surprising! This week we chatted with TK Teacher Marissa Griffith. Here’s what she had to say.

Marissa Griffith

When did you know you wanted to be an educator?I knew I wanted to be an educator when I had my first childhood development course in college. I had a wonderful professor who was so passionate and enthusiastic about teaching all of us. She had this light that would shine every time she gave a lecture or watched us present our projects. After being in her class and learning about the impact that educators can make, I felt it was the right path for me. 

Who was your favorite teacher and why? My favorite teacher was my child development professor in college. She made a huge difference in my life and changed my career path going forward. She was interesting and easy to interact with. She really cared about me as a whole person and not just that I would pass her class. The focus of the class was Project Based Learning and developing a curriculum that we would use in the future. 

How does Placer Academy’s mission and vision align with your personal values? Placer Academy’s mission and vision align with my personal values in a myriad of ways. First and foremost is their belief in Project Based Learning. I am a huge advocate for hands-on learning and self-expression in the classroom. Secondly is our passion for developing the whole child. We do not just work with children academically, we challenge them to be the best version of themselves through social and emotional teaching and thinking creatively. Lastly, PAC’s ability to make everyone feel welcome and at home is one of the best gifts I could ask for when seeking employment. Overall, I feel that I am exactly where I am supposed to be. 

What do you love most about your role? What I love most about my role in the school is being able to be the starting point for all of the children at Placer Academy. Being the TK teacher feels uniquely special and a huge privilege. I have met so many wonderful children and parents and I look forward to meeting many more.  

What else would you like us to know about YOU? I love animals of all kinds. I have many pets including a dog, cats, reptiles, and fish. I also enjoy reading and spending time with my family on the weekends. 

Our caring teachers create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all learners. Find out how Placer Academy can be a great fit for your TK-6 student and enroll today!

About Placer AcademyPlacer Academy is a TK-6 tuition-free, public charter school serving students in Rocklin, Lincoln, and Roseville CA and the surrounding areas. Placer Academy inspires with hands-on, Project Based Learning, giving each student the support they need to succeed. Our caring teachers and staff encourage families to be closely involved in our tight-knit community, and we partner with many area businesses on inspiring service learning projects and field trips. Join our public charter school today! Enrolling now.