About your teacher...

“The capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn is a choice.”

Brian Herbert


As I facilitate my students’ learning in the classroom each day, my desire is to see each student find worth and value in themselves as they strive to be kind and respectful toward others, to have courage to make mistakes, and to be successful in their own unique way. This year I will strive hard to create rich and challenging learning experiences and equip students with the “tools” necessary to realize their unique potential. My hope is that students will become aware of their personal growth and development and eventually take ownership of their learning and gain a sense of accomplishment.


A few tidbits about my life: I am a single mom of 3 grown children. Rachel, 40, is married and lives in Mount Vernon, WA with her husband and adopted baby boy, Miles (10 months old). She works full time for a small, private ferry company serving in role of ferry manager. Leah is 38, lives in Kent, married and the mommy of my adorable, precious grandson, Jayden, who is now 11. She works as a Nurse Assistant. My only son, Peter, is 34 and works full time for a restaurant in Seattle. Of course, my grandchildren, Jayden and Miles, are my pride and joy; you will certainly hear more about them from your kids as the year progresses.

UPDATE: I was married on December 26, 2018!


This summer I had a total knee replacement which has curtailed many of my usual activities. However, I typically enjoy walking, hiking, and especially kayaking–calm, flat water, not white-water. I own a kayak and all my own gear, but do not go out nearly as much as I would like since it is not an activity that is safe to do alone. But some day…..

As I launch into my 41st year of teaching, I marvel at the growth and learning that has taken place in me. I also am awed at how much more I have to learn (keeps me young). My career has been one for which I am extremely thankful. As I was raising my own children, I taught 24 years for a private Christian school in Vancouver; my children accompanied me to and from school every day so it was possible for me to work and at the same time, stay involved in their daily life at school. From 2002-2006, I worked for HomeLink and then transferred when 5th grade was added to CAM in the fall of 2006. Teaching has been a passion without which I cannot imagine life. I especially love teaching at CAM.

I will be retiring at the end of this year. I have met and fallen in love with a wonderful man who lives in Renton, WA. We will be married on December 26, 2018. However, I will continue teaching and finish this year. After that I will be moving and starting a new adventure and the next chapter of my life in Renton. I am filled with joy and excitement, but also sadness that I will be leaving CAM, many friends and a career which has been so incredibly rewarding.

I have an open-door policy; I want to be available to you whenever possible. My regular work hours are Monday through Friday (yes, even Wednesday!) from 7:30-3:00. You may also reach me by email (beck.marian@battlegroundps.org) or by phone (360-885-6800 ext.4438). My classroom is open for students to come in for help any school day from 2:00-2:45. However, this time should be reserved for students who need help, not just a study hall.

Thank you for choosing CAM Academy for you child’s education this year.

Marian Beck (Esvelt as of Dec. 26)