Marlington teacher named Stark County Educator of the Year

The Marlington Local School District has shared that Shelly McAlister, who teaches Spanish at Marlington Middle and High schools, was recognized as an Educator of the Year as part of the All-County Teaching Team.

McAlister was honored at the annual Stark County Educational Service Center Education Celebration as one of Stark County’s top educators, an achievement that reflects her dedication and the excellence at Marlington Local Schools.

McAlister is in her 14th year at Marlington. She teaches Exploring Languages, Spanish I, Spanish III/IV and Spanish College Credit Plus at Marlington High School and Marlington Middle School. She first discovered her love of language, travel and culture as a freshman at Marlington High School. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in Spanish and French from Miami University and later earned a master’s degree in translation and interpretation from the Universidad de Granada in Spain. She lived and studied abroad for nearly three years in Chile, France, Costa Rica and Spain. McAlister said she looks forward to sharing her experiences and passion for language and culture with her classes.

“We will work hard, but it’s my goal to make each year an enjoyable and educational experience for my students,” she said.

Marlington Local School District Superintendent Dan Swisher said the recognition is well deserved.

“This honor is incredibly well deserved,” Swisher said. “Shelly’s impact on our students, staff and broader school community is both deep and far-reaching. We are truly fortunate to have her on our team. Please join us in congratulating Mrs. McAlister on this well-earned recognition.”