What People are Saying
“Marlena beautifully connects the heart and head of our work as educators.”
“Marlena is a rare gem that you don't often find. Her ability to be clear about what the adults’ roles are in education, specifically when it comes to trauma-informed practices that live in and out of the classroom, comes second to none! Marlena is a phenomenal facilitator. She is a storyteller that connects with her audience and intentionally creates ways to engage that audience through workshops. Marlena beautifully connects the heart and head of our work as educators. Every single person who educates a child MUST attend her workshops!”
Modiegi Notoane-Eugene, Chief People Officer, East Harlem Tutorial Program
“When Marlena speaks there is a calmness that fills the room.”
“When Marlena speaks there is a calmness that fills the room. She has a presence that allows everyone to feel at home. This safe space has allowed me and many others to be open and participate in difficult conversations. As educators in a world that is ever-changing, it is crucial that we can come together in spaces that allow vulnerability, reflection, and change. Marlena has created that safe space and she is the queen of new perspectives! Each session I walk away with a new one that allows me to be a better person and educator.”
Hakiema Batemon, Lead Teacher, LINK Community Charter School
“She speaks with conviction and leads with love.”
“I have always been moved when I hear Marlena speak. She speaks with conviction and she leads with love. Her attention to detail, commitment to our kids, and follow-through have had a phenomenal impact on our families and us as educators. After attending PD sessions, I’m often compelled to reflect on my “why” and refresh my motivation for the work that I do.”
Nakiesha Moore, Lead Teacher, Newark Public Schools
“Marlena's classroom is a place where all students feel known, valued, and loved. Students love being in her class because she has made it a community where everyone supports one another. Marlena does this by hearing her students and having them be a part of creating the classroom culture they want. At the forefront of her work is having a trauma mindset where she is teaching her students the valuable skills they need to grow as humans first. ”
Ann Diaco, Social Worker, Harrison Public Schools