Meet May #MICharter Hero: Marsha Salome from Rising Stars Academy

Kyra Biscarner
May 3, 2023 1:57:30 PM

As not only a parent to a student at Rising Stars Academy (RSA) in Center Line but also as the Administrative Assistant in the main office, Marsha Salome feels passionate about the work RSA is doing. 

I really appreciate what the school is bringing to those with special needs. Students here have an opportunity to meet new people and become more social. Being social is not something that comes as easily to those with special needs. We have more time here than we might have in a traditional public school setting to allow students to connect and those connections are made. I don’t think out in the world there’s always time to allow that to happen nor do I think a lot of people have the time to allow it to happen. 

In her role at RSA, Marsha is the first face you see when you walk in the door and always greets everyone with a smile. Marsha’s nominator said Marsha is the “glue that holds the school together. 

Marsha is the savior of this whole school. As someone who worked as a teacher at Rising Stars for years, and is now the administrator, Marsha is the one that keeps everyone on track. She is the glue that keeps us all together. She is extremely organized, has impeccable attention to detail, and has valuable insight on a variety of issues.

Marsha cites her love of organization to her ability to thrive at RSA. Marsha’s nominator said Marsha is making everyone’s lives at RSA better.

Marsha goes out of her way to make everyone's life a little easier. She is a true team player and we would be lost without her!

Having worked in schools for over 16 years, RSA was the perfect fit for Marsha. Marsha said being able to work in the same school her son attended was ideal. 

Once my kids got old enough so that I could work I went into South Lake Schools as an employee for 16 years. Debbie Prentiss, the co-founder of Rising Stars Academy, approached me and I jumped at the opportunity to work in the front office. I’ve been here 2 years and it was great to come to work where my son attended.

Marsha’s nominator said having the background as a RSA parent helps Marsha connect with families of other students and potential students. 

As the administrative assistant, AND a parent to one of our students, Marsha helps every parent and student who enrolls and is thinking about enrolling by explaining the entire process. She really knows how to connect with families on multiple levels.

Marsha said helping others understand more about the work RSA is doing and connecting with the students is the best part of her job. 

I appreciate getting to know all of the students here and also reaching out to other people as I’ve moved through the school system over the years to help them understand what having a special need might mean.

Rising Stars Academy is a post-secondary school for young adults ages 18-26 dedicated to the advancement of individuals with intellectual disabilities. They provide hands-on education in a work-based learning program to give students necessary skills needed to be employable, maintain employment and function as productive citizens. 

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