2023-24 September Teacher of the Month

Teacher of the Month

Most of us graduate from high school and sometimes even college unsure of what our professional future holds, but Marissa Franks, Sky Zone’s September Teacher of the Month, never had any doubts about what she wanted to do.

Enjoy getting to know Marissa, now a second-grade teacher at Burgess Elementary School, and find out what her passion for education stems from.

How long have you been a teacher? I started teaching seven years ago on the Grand Strand after graduating from Coastal Carolina with a bachelors in Elementary Education.

How long have you been at your current school and what grade do you teach? I have taught fourth through second grade and currently teach second grade.

What led you into teaching and what continues to motivate you? I lived in Myrtle Beach my whole life and had the pleasure of going through Horry County schools as a student first! It was my teachers from Kindergarten and up that started my love for teaching. In second grade, I asked my parents for a projector and white board on my wall so I could teach my little cousins and stuffed animals and always knew teaching was what I was meant to do.

What was your reaction to winning the award? I am so utterly surprised to have won this award because our district is so full of amazing educators! I am so grateful to be nominated and receive such kind recognition.

What was the reaction of your class? My students were over the moon and could not wait to share with me when they plan to head to Sky Zone and Crazy Mason.

Have you been to Sky Zone before? If so, what was your experience like? I have been to Sky Zone with my two older sons quite often and love how much there is for them to do and how safe it is for them to play and do what they love.

What do you find most rewarding about being a teacher? While I always dreamed of being a teacher and having my own classroom, the relationships I get to build with both students and their families is my favorite part of being a teacher.

Outside of the classroom, what are some of your interests? I love to read and spend time with my three boys at the beach.