For Ridgefield High School senior Marlo Denniston, spending Thursday evenings at the Ridgefield School District’s Early Learning Center isn't just volunteer work, it's a glimpse into her future.
Denniston is one of six Ridgefield High School students who volunteer in the district's preschool program, supporting teachers and building relationships with some of Ridgefield's youngest learners. What began as an opportunity shared through her Child Development class quickly became something much more meaningful.
"Our teacher (Anne Simms) sent out an email that we could go volunteer, and we went on a field trip here in March," Denniston said. "I just fell in love, and it was so much fun. I knew I definitely wanted to do it."
The experience reinforced a dream she has held for years.
"I've always wanted to be a teacher," she said.
Each week, Denniston assists preschool staff, engages with students during classroom activities, and provides an extra set of helping hands wherever needed.
"I kind of help whoever needs help and walk around and play," she said. "I'm just kind of another little friend for the kids to have and extra support when they need it."
Her natural ability to connect with children has not gone unnoticed by the staff she works alongside.
"Marlo is hard working and a natural presence with kiddos," said Jamie Heim, Assistant Director of Student Services and Early Learning. "Her references came from RHS teachers Emily Whitton and Anne Simms, who both shared that Marlo is an excellent communicator, respectful, kind, and compassionate."
Lead Preschool Teacher Jody Harris has also seen firsthand the impact Denniston has made in the classroom.
"Marlo is incredibly patient and intuitive to students' needs," Harris said. "She has taken on some of our more involved students with kindness and patience."
For Denniston, the best part of volunteering is the enthusiasm and curiosity that young children bring each day.
"They're so eager to meet new people and learn new things," she said. "They're just so fun to talk to."
After graduating this spring, Denniston plans to attend Clark College before transferring to complete a degree in Early Childhood Education. Her passion for working with children extends beyond the classroom. Growing up in Ridgefield, she spent time babysitting younger cousins and participating in cheerleading programs including Community Education’s wildly popular Jr. Cheer Camps, experiences that helped shape her career aspirations.
In addition to her work at the Early Learning Center, Denniston has contributed her voice to the future of the district as a student participant on Ridgefield School District's Strategic Planning Committee, helping provide student perspectives as the district develops its vision and goals for the years ahead.
As she prepares to graduate in just a few short weeks, Denniston encourages younger students to make the most of their high school experience.
"I had a hard time remembering that not everything is so serious," she said. "Just have fun, make it what it is, and make new friends as much as you can."
Though she describes herself as shy, she challenges herself to connect with others each day, whether through conversation or a simple compliment.
That willingness to build relationships has already made a difference for the preschool students she serves, and it is a quality that will undoubtedly serve her well as she begins her journey toward becoming a teacher.
For the children at the Early Learning Center, Marlo isn't just a volunteer. She's already becoming the kind of educator she hopes to be.
