Billings – The Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools, Western Security Bank and City Brew Coffee have recognized a local educator who consistently goes above and beyond for her students. French teacher Marmee Morin of Senior High was presented with a $500 grant and a $150 gift card for her commitment to language learning and community service.
From Denmark exchange to a dozen years in France
Morin recalled her early fascination with languages, saying, “I took French at Senior High back in the ’80s and was an AFS exchange student to Denmark for three months, and I could not master Danish. I came back and thought, okay, I’m going to master French. So I studied it in college and then lived abroad in France for twelve years.”
She described living in a large French city as “amazing,” highlighting the art and culture that first drew her to the country. After returning to Billings, Morin enrolled at Montana State University Billings, noting that the French program there was small. When a teaching position opened in the district, she “jumped on it because I knew this would be fun,” she said.
Students embrace French language and culture
While Spanish remains the most commonly taught foreign language in Montana schools, Morin reports that her students are “incredibly receptive.” They love the food, the culture, and demonstrate eager, enthusiastic learning. To bring a taste of France into the classroom, Morin often shares homemade French bread, thanks to her husband’s downtown bakery, Le Fournil. “They get to taste the different types and bring in things to go with it. We’re all lucky to have that bakery,” she added.
Building a foundation for lifelong curiosity
Morin encourages her students to stay curious about the wider world and not fear mistakes. “Be curious about what’s happening elsewhere. Not be afraid to make mistakes as you’re learning things because learning a language as you get older, you have to make mistakes before you get good,” she advised.
The Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools presented Morin with the $500 grant, sponsored by Western Security Bank, to support her continued efforts in language education. City Brew Coffee added a $150 gift card and other tokens of appreciation, underscoring the community’s support for teachers who enrich students’ lives.
How to nominate other deserving teachers
Community members who wish to recognize outstanding educators can submit nominations through the One Class at a Time program website. The initiative aims to spotlight teachers who demonstrate exceptional dedication, fostering a culture of appreciation for educators across Billings.
Morin’s story exemplifies how local partnerships and community pride can uplift teachers, inspire students, and strengthen Billings’ educational landscape.
Original reporting: KTVQ Q2 Billings (local) — read the source article.
