Mary Long, a dedicated TESOL teacher at Etna Road Elementary, began teaching in 1990 and brought her passion and expertise to the Whitehall community in 2004. Her teaching journey began with instructing refugees new to the country, followed by teaching in Head Start programs. Today, she skillfully manages ten groups daily, ranging from 6 to 20 students each, focusing on hands-on and partner work to maximize conversational practice.
Mary's commitment to innovation and cultural integration recently earned her the Innovation Award at Whitehall City Schools. She attributes this achievement to the collaborative spirit among her colleagues. Alongside fellow TESOL teacher Shannon Clipner, Mary developed a welcome orientation program for families new to the country, offering them valuable insights into navigating the American school system.
In addition, Mary collaborated with third-grade teacher Ariel Bukowski to launch "Where in the World is Etna Road?" This monthly initiative encourages families to explore free cultural and recreational spots around Columbus, including visits to Franklin Park Conservatory, The Columbus Museum of Art, and Slate Run Metro Park. This program not only educates but also enriches the lives of Etna Road families, exposing them to opportunities beyond Whitehall.
Mary's deep appreciation for Etna Road's vibrant immigrant community and the school's family-like atmosphere is evident. "We back each other up and support each other," she notes, highlighting the supportive network that flourishes within the school. Her love for travel shows in her classroom, where she shares items from around the world, helping students connect with their cultural heritage and feel represented in their learning space.
Mary Long's innovative teaching methods, dedication to cultural inclusivity, and collaborative efforts make her a standout educator at Etna Road Elementary. Her work supports academic growth and fosters a welcoming and understanding community, making her a cherished figure in the lives of many students and their families.