In the realm of education, the role of parents and educators is often considered separate, with distinct responsibilities and areas of expertise. However, Marissa Goldenstein, co-founder of InWonder Academy in Southern California, is challenging this notion and creating a new paradigm of connection and collaboration.
Through her experiences as a parent and founder of an alternative school, Marissa recognized the crucial need for support for both parents and teachers. Inspired by her passion for progressive education and fostering community, she embarked on a journey to become a parenting coach, ultimately transforming her career and personal life.
Marissa shares, "I co-founded a new elementary school in Southern California called InWonder Academy. I'm not an educator by trade, but this year I am very much an educator as I build this school! My title at the school is Director of Community. My passion is bridging the home and school, building a school culture of connection and community, and supporting parents and teachers to shift towards a power-with paradigm across contexts."
Recognizing the Need for Parental Support
Marissa's journey began with her involvement in a co-op preschool, where she witnessed the power of parental engagement and collaboration. She explains, "I observed how parents and teachers had different information. It was important to share that information together so that we could support the children in the best ways possible. Parents and educators need support, so I saw opportunities for bridging these two needs."
Taking the Step to Become a Parenting Coach
Marissa's decision to become a parenting coach was influenced by her experiences as a parent and her desire to support her children. She shares, "I was really passionate about exploring the emotions that my strong-willed firstborn had and developing an understanding of how I can better support him in the home. So I decided to pursue parent coaching through Jai."
Using the Jai Certification
The Jai certification has played an essential role in Marissa's understanding of creating a conscious school design and community. She emphasizes, "The Jai certification has been crucial for understanding actionable tools and ideas for creating a conscious school design and community."
Advice for Educators Considering Parenting Coaching
Marissa encourages educators to embark on the transformative journey of becoming parenting coaches. She shares her advice, "I would say: Do it. It's life-changing. It’s so helpful as an educator to rethink how to support kids through connection and acceptance. And what you learn will transform your life in general – how you accept and connect with yourself and everyone in your life."
The Life-Changing Journey of Becoming a Jai Certified Parenting Coach
Marissa Goldenstein's story exemplifies the power of bridging the gap between parents and educators and the transformative potential of becoming a parenting coach. By recognizing the need for parental support, embracing coaching, and applying her newfound knowledge, Marissa is paving the way for a community that thrives on connection and collaboration.
She continues, “Jai is life-changing. It is so helpful as an educator to rethink how to support kids through connection and acceptance. It’s a very profound experience. And who knows – maybe you’ll get a crazy idea along the way like me and develop something new in education too!”
As educators consider the
path of parenting coaching, they have the opportunity to impact not only children's lives but also their personal growth and fulfillment. Together, parents and educators can create a brighter future for the next generation.
Educator Spotlights
As part of a series about how educators are using their Jai Parent Coach Certification, read Stephanie, and Shaella's stories:
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