Rockford Teacher Named Teacher of the Week

Congratulations to our brand new Teacher of the Week, Sara Marben from St. Rita Catholic School in Rockford!

Deeanna Kiefer wrote this beautiful letter about Mrs. Marben!

I am honored to nominate Sara Marben, Kindergarten teacher at St. Rita Catholic School, for Teacher of the Week. Mrs. Marben is the definition of what a truly caring and committed educator looks like.
I had the privilege of working alongside her as her teacher’s aide for three years, and those years changed my life. During that time, she not only poured into her students but poured into me as well. As someone in my 30s considering going back to school to become a teacher, I doubted myself. Mrs. Marben believed in me before I fully believed in myself. She constantly encouraged me, answered my questions about my own coursework, and made me feel capable and confident. Because of her support and example, I will be receiving my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education this year.

(Letter cont'd below)

Mrs. Marben, Teacher of the Week from St. Rita Catholic School

Gallery Credit: Sweet Lenny

In the classroom, Mrs. Marben goes above and beyond for every child. If a student struggled with sight words or a math concept, she didn’t just move on — she created games, hands-on lessons, and engaging activities to make sure that child truly understood. She always looked for ways to reach each learner and made sure her students received more than just the basics. She wanted them to thrive.
She arrived early, stayed late, and still balanced being a devoted wife and mother to her three involved daughters. Her dedication to both her family and her students is inspiring. She models compassion, hard work, faith, and excellence every single day.
Although I no longer work with her, I cherish the three years I spent learning beside her. She is the kind of teacher I aspire to be in my own future classroom, and her influence will continue through the students she teaches and the educators she inspires.
Sara Marben is more than deserving of Teacher of the Week.

As Teacher of the Week, Mrs. Marben was surprised with a cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes, money to spend at WM Day Spa Salon, and lunch courtesy of Redd Insurance Group.

Hear the full interview below with Mrs. Marben on 97ZOK.

TOTW - SARA MARBEN FROM ST RITA