We are proud to feature Marci Pieras, a dedicated teacher at Hoosic Valley since 2006. Marci has had a significant impact on her students over the years, and she is passionate about building lasting relationships that continue long after they leave her classroom. Recently, Marci has taken her commitment to helping others beyond the school walls by volunteering for “Flutters of Hope,” an organization that supports individuals struggling with eating disorders and raises awareness about mental health. Marci feels strongly about offering support to young people and helping them feel less alone during difficult times.
Reflecting on her time at Hoosic Valley, Marci is grateful for the relationships she has maintained with former students. “It makes me so happy to know they have positive memories of my class,” she shared. Whether they recall a story they read in her class, celebrating “Outsiders Day” as eighth graders, or a writing assignment they were proud of, these moments of connection are what make teaching so meaningful for her. Marci loves seeing her former students thriving as adults and feels honored to have been a small part of their journeys.
Marci’s passion for teaching is deeply rooted in these relationships. “These relationships remind me why I got into this profession: to make a difference and be a person whom students can feel is on their side,” she said. Seeing her former students succeed in life and start families of their own brings her great joy, knowing that she has played a role in shaping who they have become.
She credits her colleagues—Holly Martin, Kristen Przybylo, and Valary Guilianelle—as sources of inspiration. “They all have such wonderful relationships with their students and make me strive to be better at what I do every day,” Marci said. Their ability to bring joy and laughter to their roles motivates her to continue making a positive impact.
Marci hopes that her story serves as a reminder that “we all make a difference in one another’s lives. Even when you might feel small or invisible, there’s someone out there who sees you or is inspired by you, so keep going!”
