Marcus Wilkerson
For Wilkerson, his versatility as an educator sets him
apart in his role as a math teacher at Arroyo Valley in the San
Bernardino City Unified School District. As a world-champion
professional dancer who has performed worldwide, Wilkerson voluntarily
started a step class with students at Arroyo Valley. He also is a
renowned motorcycle racer, and if his life sounds like the script from a
movie, it's because he's also been an actor.
“This is the teacher that all kids deserve,” wrote fellow
Arroyo Valley teacher Morgan Pellettera in her nomination of Wilkerson.
“He is someone who will do whatever it takes to ensure our kids
understand that the power to succeed is inside them.”
Wilkerson’s strong rapport with students is evidenced by his
availability to tutor in math before and after school, regularly with
students who are not enrolled in his classes. Outside the classroom,
Wilkerson is recognized for the great performances he has organized with
student step dancers, as well as the positive energy he brings as a
choreographer at school pep rallies.