A new face you may see at BHS this year is Marquiza Russell, who teaches environmental science and biology. 

Originally from the Philippines, Russell taught for 23 years before landing in Beachwood, in Japan, Singapore, North Carolina and Cleveland Heights. As a high school student in Manila, Philippines, she says she had really nice science teachers who inspired her. 

However, she was on a pre-med track before realizing it was not for her.

“I didn’t want to be stuck in the lab,” she said.

Her passion for science led her down a different path.

“I thought I might as well earn my teaching degree and become a teacher, because you teach what you like, and I love science,” she said.

Russell says she likes teaching at BHS because she can really get to know her students.

After a long day of work she stops thinking in English and reads books in her native language Tagalog to wind down. 

She says her experience teaching in different countries is what makes her different from other teachers.

“I just approach it differently because I’ve seen different scenarios,” she said. 

Russell describes herself as “open minded, inclusive and patient.”

 “My goal is just to make sure me and my students understand each other,” she said.

Russell has enjoyed BHS so far.

“I have absolutely enjoyed my first few months so far in Beachwood,” she said.