Marcus Ross has a special connection with his students at Lakes Middle School where he teaches eighth grade math, drawing from his own experience as a former Lakes student and product of Coeur d’Alene Public Schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. With a kind demeanor and genuine passion for innovative, hands-on instructional techniques, Ross tailors his lessons to meet each student’s individual needs. He injects energy into his lessons by adapting word problems to pique students’ interest, using YouTube videos to simulate the steps to solve them. For a statistics unit, Ross tapped staff members as suspects in a mystery game that rewarded students with a clue each time they mastered a math concept.
Ross’ 4-tier classroom management system, now standard schoolwide, keeps students on task with colored LED lights indicating the tier in place: instructional time (Tier 1), independent work (Tier 2), partner time/peer support (Tier 3) and small group activities (Tier 4).
Early in his career, Ross has established himself as a leader. He presents for Lakes’ Deeper Learning Institute and serves on the PLC Guiding Coalition and the district math academy. Ross is also a model educator in the Lab Host Network, where he has opened his classroom for observation by more than 100 teachers across several states, and by the Idaho Department of Education. This year, Ross is taking his own professional development to the next level at Lakes by completing an administrative internship.
Fostering meaningful relationships with his students and their families, Ross encourages parents to write notes for their children to read before testing, invites students to share messages with him on any topic, and writes heartfelt farewell letters to his former students upon their high school graduation. His positive influence serves him well in his roles as a coach for cross-country, boys’ basketball, and track. Additionally, Ross is an advisor for the Kind Club, which hosts a “Drive by Kindness” event where students and parents are greeted cheerfully while arriving to school. He also mentors and supports nearby fifth graders ahead of middle school. A handwritten sign hanging on the wall of Ross’ classroom explains his advice best: “Remember, you are loved and you matter!”
Ross earned his Bachelor of Arts in elementary education with an endorsement in mathematics from Boise State University in 2019.
Press Release: Coeur d'Alene Teacher Recognized as One of Nation's Best, Surprised With Milken Educator Award and $25,000 Prize
