Marisol Berrios is one of our very talented Classroom Literacy Assistants working at Julia de Burgos Elementary. These bilingual parents are able to provide much needed support to students, teachers, and families. Marisol assists in 2nd grade and has made a significant difference in the lives of her students. In addition to her work in the classroom, she has also helped plan community events and provided technology support schoolwide to families. Get to know more about her below!
How did you start working with Historic Fair Hill?
A: I got referred seven years ago by my oldest daughter’s kindergarten teacher who knew me as a parent that liked to be involved in my kids’ education. I always wanted the best opportunities for my kids so I try to do the same for the kids in my classrooms. I do anything within my reach to help the kids that I work with succeed.
What do you do as a Classroom Literacy Assistant?
A: I do anything that can help the teacher focus more on the kids – like grading, filing, making copies, putting grades in the system, testing the kids in math and literacy. I work with them on their sight words. I translate for the parents that need it, so they can have an open communication with the teacher, in a language they feel comfortable with.
How does reading and writing play a role in your life outside of school?
A: Reading and writing are a big part of who I am. Since I was little I have always liked to read anything and everything within my reach. As a result, I have read close to a thousand books in the past 4 years alone. I have written 3 books and I have plans to publish them as soon as they are completely ready.
What are you most proud of about your work?
A: I’m proud that I’m able to make a difference in the students’ lives. I love seeing their progress throughout the year. Some kids come to us not knowing their letters or letter sounds and it’s amazing seeing how they go from knowing maybe 5 or 6 sight-words to 300 hundred or more.
What is a challenge that you face in your work?
A: Sometimes it doesn’t matter how much help they get at school; they don’t have the same support at home.
What is your favorite thing about the Fairhill neighborhood?
A: The diversity. There are people from all over the world but they still love to get together and share their customs and beliefs.
