Marie Burns ~ Preschool Lead Teacher
The word that comes to mind when I think of Marie is lovely. Her demeanor is somehow peaceful and enthusiastic all at once (what could be more perfect for a preschool teacher?!). When Barbara and I met with Marie about coming to work at BLOOM, we were immediately taken with this lovely woman who spoke so genuinely and articulately about her love of working with children and their families. She cannot help but let the joy shine through when discussing the children in her care. She spoke fondly about building relationships with families through parent study groups, craft workshops and family pot lucks. It was clear that building community is as important to Marie as it is to us at BLOOM. We knew we had a fit.
Marie has a Bachelor's degree in Child and Adolescent Behavior from San Francisco State University. She has a Master's degree in Education from Antioch New England Graduate School, with Waldorf and public school teaching certification in New Hampshire. Marie has been working at the Monadnock Waldorf School in Keene, New Hampshire for the last five years. She is currently their kindergarten teacher. She will be relocating to Aquidneck Island in July. Marie will be one of our Pre-kindergarten teachers, leading a group of up to fourteen children, three to five years old.
A few things about Marie (in her own words):
My goal every day as a teacher is to meet each child with love, warmth and joy; and for each parent to feel and trust that their child is in the best possible care available. I believe that if children are surrounded by love and warmth every day, they will one day be inspired to serve the world with love and kindness.
I am deeply inspired by the wonder of nature, and the joy of childhood - which makes the concept of BLOOM so appealing to me. I am new to gardening. Although I grew up with parents who love to garden, it took me years to realize that working in a garden is so wonderfully meditative, nurturing and oh-so-joyful when you pick that first tomato!
I love animals, especially horses. As a child, growing up in the beautiful, rural farmlands of upstate New York, I had always wished for a horse...and my wish came true! My experience with this horse really prepared me for many of life's ups and downs. Learning that sometimes you fall down and all you can do is get back up and try again was a true life lesson.
I am so proud of my work as a teacher, as teaching is filled with learning, striving and reflecting. I am inspired every day by the children in my care. I am so grateful for this inspiration, and that I can briefly become a part of each family's journey.
Editor's Note: In case you require any further convincing, my own daughter will be in Miss Marie's class in September. Consider this the ultimate endorsement as I, like any parent, want nothing but the best for my daughters!