Day 1: “The man, the myth, the legend”

Wherever, whenever and however, Campus Security Aide, Mr. Joseph is there. Known as “JoJo” by many he displays such empathy and compassion in so many ways. He’s the staff member that is always there, if you need help with anything JoJo is the one to call. The guidance he provides students at Marshall is extraordinary. Many students have said time and time again that they feel as though they aren’t heard by staff when they express themselves but ask anyone and they’ll tell you JoJo understands everything. JoJo is the man, he’s a friend to those without. He understands students in a way no other staff does and for that the students cherish him. His energy lights up Marshall and provides a safe haven to students who have nowhere to turn.

Day 2: “The All star”

Meet Jayden, a senior who transferred to Marshall to play basketball and be a part of Barrister pride. When asked what he thinks about Marshall he said the school represents inclusivity and community. So many people from different walks of life and childhoods come together to make a place where everyone feels welcomed. He said his greatest memory was when the John Marshall boys basketball team won against Eagle Rock on senior night. The team came together to defeat one of Marshall’s long standing rivals in sports. The inclusivity he felt that night was something that can’t be replicated, and a night where barrister pride shined.

Day 3: Then there’s Hayley

Hayley Rodriguez, a sophomore in the SES program at Marshall is making moves for our community. Leadership is not just speeches on stage or bold headlines in the yearbook. Sometimes, it looks like a girl quietly restocking shelves with donated clothes and other supplies- someone like Hayley. Hayley and her peers started the Community closet her sophomore year after noticing the deep insecurity that some students feel when having to wear the same outfits everyday. She said “we wanted to fight back against fast fashion and provide for the community in a sustainable way”. As SES leader, Hayley works closely with counselors and faculty to promote student wellness, especially for those facing challenges workshops on mental health, cultural inclusion, equity isn’t just a buzzword. Hayley Rodriguez isn’t just a student. She’s a symbol of what it means to lead with heart. And for many at Marshall, she’s the reason they feel seen.

Day 4: Where’s the Love ?

Maya Love, a junior in the SAS program at Marshall is the extrovert of the century. She can strike up a conversation with anyone and everyone no matter their background. The former Varsity Girls Basketball star can make friends just from a smile, Maya has a way of brightening up a day while keeping it real. However, the student feels as if this environment might not be receptive to her kindness. “I feel like a puzzle piece, I fit but I don’t belong” she said in an interview. To her Marshall is a great school but it needs some improvement on the social aspect. As a student she feels that Marshall should come more together and share smiles with everyone no matter their feelings towards one another. Maya brings the love not only with her last name but her ability to bring people together with her empathy.

Day 5: Between the Shelves: Our librarians impact.

Ms. Lemus: A leader, a visionary, and always straight to the point. With her fast pace and quick wit Ms. Lemus is always there. The librarian has been at Marshall for six years, long enough to remember students that really stand out. She’s turned the library into more than just a place to read. It’s a refuge. A quiet escape. A workspace. Students can come to her not only for books but for the deepest advice, for empathy and comfort. She never asks why- students are always welcome no matter what. Ms. Lemus doesn’t seek attention or praise. She just shows up-day after day, year after year- with compassion, patience and an endless belief in her students. Although this is her last year at Marshall her mark has been made and there is no other librarian like Ms. Lemus. Her presence will forever be felt at Marshall and the advice she’s given over the years will go miles. She wants students to remember “that the power to read, access info and think for yourself is one of the most important skills a person can have. I urge students to take advantage of all three traits to create a fair and just society for generations to come”.  At Marshall, she’s not just the librarian. She’s the story keeper. And for many, she’s the reason they keep writing their own.

These are just a few of the humans at Marshall- students, teachers, dreamers, fighters. Some are still figuring out who they are. Others are helping others find their way.
Together, we make Marshall more than just a school. We make a community, one human story at a time.