Dawson Spotlight: Mariko Nisce
Have you met Ms. Mariko Nisce yet? Mariko was born and raised in Manila, Philippines. She graduated cum laude at the University of the Philippines with a bachelor’s degree in family life and child development. She has more than 10 years of experience teaching Early Childhood, and previously created a summer camp program for preschoolers in 2012. Currently, she’s an EC teacher at Dawson! Learn more about her in this edition of #DawsonSpotlight!
How long have you been a teacher?
I’ve been teaching for 10 years. 8 years in the Philippines and 2 years here in the United States.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
Growing up, I’ve always wanted to make a difference in the world. At first, I thought it was by being a doctor. But after taking up my major in college, I realized that being in a classroom with children who are learning to navigate the first few years of their lives was waaay more satisfying for me. (But also, the Sciences were never my strongest subjects!)
What’s your favorite thing about teaching at Dawson?
I love how every individual, whether student or faculty, parent or staff, is celebrated; and how we learn from and give importance to our differences. There is definitely unity in our diversity.
What is one thing about you that would surprise students?
I’m ambidextrous! I used to be right-handed, but an accident forced me to use my left hand as my dominant hand.
What helps you feel strong?
The support of my husband, family, friends, and colleagues helps me feel strong. Oh, and some iced coffee or sweet iced tea in the morning! :D
What does Stronger Together mean to you?
For me, stronger together means tapping into the strengths of a group of people to overcome challenges together.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my marriage, my family, and being able to continue a career in teaching after having moved here from the Philippines three years ago.
Do you have any career highlights that you’d like to note and share with our community?
I spearheaded a Preschool Program for the summer camp I worked at back in Manila. I created a program that catered to ages 2 ½-5 that focused on developing socio-emotional skills through recreational activities.
Watch her QuickFire Q&A in the hot seat on IGTV. Thank you for sitting in the spotlight, Ms. Nisce!
Check out all of our #DawsonSpotlight features here.
Watch her QuickFire Q&A in the hot seat on IGTV. Thank you for sitting in the spotlight, Ms. Nisce!
Check out all of our #DawsonSpotlight features here.
The Alexander Dawson School
The Alexander Dawson School at Rainbow Mountain, an independent school located on 33-acres in the community of Summerlin, is Nevada’s first Stanford University Challenge Success partner school for students in early childhood through grade eight. Utilizing the unique Challenge Success framework, Dawson uses research-based strategies and programs that emphasize student academics, wellbeing, and a healthy school-life balance to create more engaged, motivated, and resilient learners and leaders. At Dawson, students achieve their individual potential while savoring life and meeting the challenges of the world.