Marisa Halford has worn many hats within Hamilton Community Schools—parent, substitute teacher, paraprofessional, and now, student teacher. With four children spanning ninth, seventh, fourth, and second grade, she has been deeply connected to the district since her family moved to Hamilton years ago. Now, she is working toward her teaching certification through the West Michigan Teacher Collaborative Program and taking the next step in her journey.
"We moved here just before my now-ninth grader started kindergarten. We picked this community because we heard great things about the school," Halford shared. "All my kids went to Bentheim and have had wonderful experiences. When I started substitute teaching, I really enjoyed subbing here. I enjoy the people I work with and the sense of community and family that exists, not only within this school but within our district."
Her path to wanting to become teacher started two years ago when her youngest child entered kindergarten. Halford began substitute teaching and quickly found a passion for working in the classroom. This led her to accept a position at Bentheim Elementary as an MTSS paraprofessional, where she learned she could put her Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management to good use again and turn it into a teaching career.
"I heard about the West Michigan Teacher Collaborative, where if you already had a Bachelor's degree, you could apply to it and it was a way to get student teaching and earn your teaching certificate," she explained.
The application process was rigorous. Halford applied in November 2023, and after being selected for an interview, she joined 80 other candidates at Grand Valley State University's downtown Grand Rapids campus in February 2024.
"The whole process was extremely nerve-racking because you're with people you don't know, and you're all essentially competing against each other for a spot," she recalled. "I had to give a five-minute mini-lesson that provided enough detail to show I could teach in front of other people who were also interviewing. Then, we were put into groups and given a problem within a school to solve. At the end, we had a one-on-one interview with two panelists."
By mid-March, Halford was one of approximately 50 individuals selected for the program. Now, she is gaining hands-on experience in the classroom under the guidance of veteran kindergarten teacher Lisa Rumsey at Bentheim Elementary.
"It's just been amazing learning from her. I feel like I take notes every day so I can remember these things for next year," Halford said.
Looking ahead, Halford hopes to have her own classroom in the 2025-26 school year. She hopes to complete her teaching certification in April after months of classes, meetings, and classroom learning.
"My goal ultimately next year is to have my own classroom. I would love to stay in Hamilton, but I understand if that's not possible and will look in the area," she said.
Regardless of where she ends up, Halford’s journey from dedicated Hamilton parent to aspiring teacher highlights her passion, perseverance, and work ethic. Way to go, Marisa!
