About Mrs. Richardson

Hi! I'm Mariah Richardson and I'm thrilled to be part of ELA's 4th Grade team this year! Here's a little about me:

I grew up in Gilbert, AZ, but have lived in Utah since I came for school. I graduated from BYU with a degree in Elementary Education, along with minors in music and teaching English as a second language. This is my second year at ELA and I love working in the amazing community here!

I love traveling, especially to Japan, where I lived for a total of nearly 5 years. I also love playing and listening to music; my first job was teaching piano lessons, and I've sung in choirs consistently since junior high!

My educational philosophy is centered on the idea that "the mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled". I firmly believe that each of my students deserves love, respect, and kindness at school, and that my job is to provide those along with the "kindling" they need to reach their learning potential. I have high learning and behavior expectations, but I also recognize that every student is on their own journey and do my best to celebrate all the little victories along the way. When children know that they are loved and capable, they achieve amazing things!

In my spare time, I enjoy knitting, experimenting in the kitchen, and playing video games with my husband.

I can't wait for this amazing school year to start!