Ask any of her former students and they will likely have good things to say about long-time Tyrone math teacher Michelle Marasco. She has a lasting impact on her students’ lives and many still discuss her classes, even well after graduation.
Marasco teaches a variety of math courses, such as dual enrollment calculus, dual enrollment statistics, statistics, pre-calculus, and consumer math.
Marasco has a great sense of humor, which makes her classes exciting to be in, while also getting work done efficiently and accurately.
Marasco is also incredibly understanding and more than willing to help her students who struggle with something in her classes, which contributes to her positive learning environment.
“Every student will hit a wall in math. That’s when they need to learn to climb over it. I’ve told this to many students over the years. Math doesn’t always come easy, but if you work at it, you will succeed,” Marasco said.
She is also the chair of the math department. Her fellow math teachers in the high school all appreciate her leadership.
“Mrs. Marasco is an absolute joy to work with,” TAHS math teacher Jane Bugden said about teaching alongside Marasco. “She’s fostered a united department which supports one another professionally and personally. We never would have made it through COVID days without planning together and moving all 17 math courses to Canvas. All those who come in contact with her are better for knowing her and the talent she brings to Tyrone.”
In addition to her busy teaching schedule, Marasco also advises Student Council and helps organize Homecoming.
Marasco has also encouraged students to take initiative in activities such as bringing in a toy for the Toys For Tots foundation and donating items for Jared Boxes.
Thank you Mrs. Marasco for all that you do.
Eagle Eye: What inspired you to go into teaching and/or choose the subject you teach?
Michelle Marasco: I have loved math since junior high. My Algebra 2 teacher in 9th grade had such an impact on me and from then on, I always wanted a career in mathematics. I had planned to be an Actuary, but after doing an internship in Pittsburgh, I decided an office job wasn’t for me. I wanted to be around people and share my love of math. I graduated with a degree in Applied Mathematics, but then immediately returned to college to obtain my secondary math certification.
EE: What is your favorite thing about teaching?
MM: One of my favorite things about teaching is getting to know the students. I also love seeing students be successful, both during high school and after they graduate.
EE: What are some of your hobbies and interests?
MM: I love spending time with family and friends. I love to travel and plan trips. I’m looking forward to future trips to experience new places. Some of my favorite things are escape rooms, reading, and photography.
EE: What is some good advice you’ve been given as a teacher?
MM: My wonderful friend and mentor, Mr. Bloom, once told me, “Every student will hit a wall in math. That’s when they need to learn to climb over it.” I’ve told this to many students over the years. Math doesn’t always come easy, but if you work at it, you will succeed.
EE: What is the hardest part of teaching and why?
MM: One of the hardest things I encounter is when I know students are capable of more than they are showing.
EE: What are some of the jobs you held before getting into teaching?
MM: I was a cashier at a department store and a teaching assistant to a college math professor.
EE: What is your best advice to students?
MM: Take the time you have in high school to interact with your teachers and peers, develop skills, learn to study, and challenge yourself, all of which will help prepare you for college and the workforce.
