Marwa Shayib's Success Story

An Educational Experience that Embodies the Impact of the Summer Institute on Trainees

Teacher Marwa Al-Shayib says:

“My journey with Teach for Palestine was not just training… it was a turning point that changed my view of education forever. I realized that every lesson I give is a message I plant in the hearts of our children… an influence that extends for decades to come.”

On a school morning, teacher Marwa entered the first-grade classroom carrying a well-designed educational plan and a strong passion for helping every student fall in love with mathematics.

She began the lesson with a short educational song that woke the students up, turning their tired looks into eyes sparkling with excitement. She then presented a set of simple and enjoyable puzzles, and every correct answer earned a golden star on the student’s notebook — a simple yet profound message:

“You can… and you deserve recognition.”

Then came the moment that changed the entire course of the lesson:
Marwa told the class a story about a little girl named Zuzu who wanted to reach a red apple hanging at the top of a tree. She asked enthusiastically:

“Who can help Zuzu climb the ladder correctly?”

In moments, the students transformed from listeners into heroes actively engaged in solving the problem, naturally connecting the story to the mathematical skill in a fun and meaningful way.

Marwa delivered the lesson with a thoughtful and well-structured sequence:

• She chose a “Leader of the Day” to distribute the number cards confidently.
• She asked the students to arrange the numbers in ascending order on the ladder steps — each number a step closer bringing Zuzu to the apple.
• She explained the concept in very simple words with clear illustrations.
• She smoothly transitioned to the interactive screen to apply the skill digitally.
• She used random name sticks to select the “little teacher,” who stood up and explained the sequence to the class with a confident voice and a proud, unforgettable smile.

Marwa made sure that every child participated at least once, repeating the random selection — no one was left out of the spotlight.

She concluded the lesson with a quick and fun assessment round. The answers came collectively and correctly, accompanied by wide smiles on the children’s faces.

The students left the classroom repeating:

“Math is fun, Miss!”

But Marwa knew she had not only taught number sequencing…

She had planted confidence in their hearts, and taught them that every child is important and capable of being the hero of their own learning story.

This is not just a successful lesson…
It is an educational model whose impact goes beyond information presented, becoming a story that remains in the student’s memory — and is truly worth telling.

Marwa Al-Shayib… a teacher who doesn’t just teach, but inspires generations.

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