Larson, Ms. M

Growing up in a tiny town in rural Minnesota, Marie could never have imagined she would be working in such a diverse and inclusive international school in New York City. Despite this, her love of teaching began in primary school as she admired the difference her own teachers were making in her young life. She always hoped she could become a caring support and inspiration to young people. She is dedicated to helping the students of BIS-NY reach their greatest potential in her role as learning support teacher.

Marie pursued her bachelor’s degree in English and middle/high school English education at St. Olaf College, a beautiful liberal arts school in Minnesota. She participated in musical theater and privately studied voice and saxophone, while maintaining a regular position on the Dean’s List. Marie volunteered her free time to the local elementary and middle schools in tutoring struggling students with the local chapter of America Reads and Counts. During college, she also volunteered to help rebuild in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.

It was in college that her love affair with international education began, with a summer of study at the University of Sussex in Brighton, UK. Travels around Eastern Europe eventually led her back to England, where she briefly worked as a supply teacher in West London. Venturing back to the United States, Marie gained incredible skills of flexibility in teaching by substituting in a variety of classroom settings. She taught students ages 4 through 18 in subjects ranging from mathematics, science, physical education, band, and home economics, just to name a few!

Marie arrived in the bright lights of New York City to call International House-NYC her home. There, she was a member of the unique residential community of 700 graduate students and other individuals from over 100 countries around the world, which offers a unique experience in cross-cultural exchange. She gained insights into new beliefs, a greater understanding of international collaboration, and many friends from around the globe. At I-House, Marie served in an outreach program for Harlem youth that provides one-on-one tutoring by resident member volunteers.

In her free time, Marie enjoys cycling along the Hudson River, practicing yoga, exploring and enjoying the city, and pitifully attempting to learn Dutch. She is still a small-town girl at heart and particularly loves spending quiet Sunday afternoons in Central Park.

Currently, Marie is completing her dual Master’s Degree in Childhood Education and Literacy at Bank Street College of Education. She is thrilled to be a new addition to the Learning Support program and working with the students and community of BIS-NY.

Qualifications
BA English, St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN
Communication Arts & Literature Teaching License, Minnesota