Avon Resident Named Hartford's 2013 Teacher of the Year

Avon resident Mario Marrero, who comes from a family full of teachers, was recently recognized as Hartford's 2013 Teacher of the Year.

“He always sets high expectations for his students, not only in their academics, but in their behavior,” said fellow teacher Melissa Rodriguez of Marrero's ability to inspire a love of learning in his students. “They are like small soldiers as they walk through the hallways and into their room.”

Marrero, who teaches fourth grade at Betances STEM Magnet School, was recently honored at the annual Hartford Public Schools Teacher of the Year dinner banquet, according to a press release.

In an interview with Avon Patch, Marrero said that he thinks working with elementary students is particularly rewarding.

"This is the age where if you get them interested, it will last for the rest of their lives," he said. "And I find if I make things fun, show enthusiasm, they'll naturally follow along."

Marrero has been teaching for six years and has also worked at the Annie Fisher Magnet School of Multiple Intelligences, the Milner Core Knowledge Academy and has coached basketball.