Casey Marteney has started her teaching career at the Knox Educational Service Center’s preschool, located at the New Hope Learning Center in Mount Vernon. Marteney, a Northmor High School graduate, holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Grand Canyon University and is currently pursuing her master’s degree there.
Reflecting on her early experiences as a teacher, Marteney shared feedback she received from parents. “One mother told me that her son can’t wait for the weekend to be over so he can return to our class,” she said.
Before joining the ESC preschool, Marteney completed her student teaching in Galion City Schools, where she worked with both preschool and first-grade students. Although commuting from Bucyrus to Mount Vernon requires a significant drive, Marteney expressed that the position was worth it. “I have always been interested in teaching preschool as a career. I never really considered anything else,” she said.
Marteney works alongside assistant teacher Amy Calkins. Together they teach 12 children in the morning and another 12 in the afternoon sessions held Monday through Thursday. The students range from three to five years old.
“Building relationships with the children is so important and I am very passionate about creating a caring, fun learning environment,” Marteney said. “Preschool is the first step in building a strong foundation for future success in education.”
