Octopus references can be found throughout Marcus Luther’s English classroom at McNary High School.

They range from interesting facts taped to desks to a large cutout of the marine animal decorated with the names of students recognized by peers for demonstrating class values. 

Luther began the octopus theme to make class fun and memorable, using the cutout to help students celebrate each other and remember class values, and adding a poster, with octopuses, to his wall detailing eight steps to close reading.

Recently, Luther was recognized with a Crystal Apple Award for efforts to support and engage students in his classroom, while holding them to high academic standards. He said teachers can sometimes feel forced to choose between building rapport with students and working toward strong academic performance. Luther believes this is a false choice, saying “we can walk and chew gum.” 

“We’re always pushing for more from students, but I feel like you can simultaneously do that in a way that really honors students feeling affirmed and seen,” Luther said. 

Crystal Apple awards honor educators throughout the Salem-Keizer School District each year. This year, Luther was one of 12 to receive the award in May. 

Stephanie Lassetter, another McNary teacher, was the only other Keizer award winner. Keizer schools had 16 nominees for the award this year, out of 108 nominees in the district. 

Luther recalled the specific moment in fifth grade when he decided to become an educator. His teacher praised his writing skills and said he could succeed as an English teacher. 

Considering the many “incredible” teachers he had growing up in Newport, Luther said he felt drawn to the job. He has now taught for over a decade, participating in the national Teach for America program in Arkansas and teaching at McNary for the last six years. 

He teaches sophomores and an advanced placement literature class for juniors. 

Luther’s nomination was backed by three letters of recommendation from colleagues and a former student. They described him as an organized, intentional instructor that other teachers look to and learn from. 

“Marcus is an educator who deeply cares about student learning and thoughtfully examines what we assess and how we guide students to proficiency,” wrote McNary teacher Andrea James. “Since working with him, I have raised my expectations for my students and seen stronger learning outcomes as a result.” 

Luther emphasizes strategies to celebrate students beyond good grades or sports titles. He built systems designed to achieve this, such as the octopus cut out on his whiteboard. 

“I don’t know what students are saying to each other in small groups all the time,” he said, allowing those who are more quiet in class to still be recognized.

His “Beautiful Language Wall” displays examples of good writing pulled from student assignments.

The language wall, referenced in two of the nomination essays, highlights the work of students that can serve as a valuable learning opportunity for their peers, Luther said. 

“We tend to see what we look for, and I feel like by having systems that look for good things, it helps me see more good things in the classroom and students,” Luther said. 

Murphy noted the opportunities Luther provides students to reflect on their work ensures they are active participants in their learning experience, rather than allowing school to simply happen to them. She said educators often forget to provide these opportunities. 

As an example, Luther dedicates class time for students to personally reflect on their essays before receiving his feedback, prompting them throughout the year to add to a written document with reflections.

“It helps me see students the way they see themselves as learners, and I think that’s important for them to build that skill set,” Luther said.

In her supporting letter, Megan Curran, a graduating senior this year, highlighted extensive feedback provided by Luther on her assignments throughout the year. 

She included an anecdote of Luther “enthusiastically” agreeing to help her understand how to improve her writing after receiving an essay grade she did not like. Curran said Luther’s main concern during the conversation was how he could better support her in the future, and asked how she was feeling outside of his class. 

“Whether he realizes it or not, I held onto that conversation for the rest of the year,” Curran wrote. “Mr. Luther helps students understand that their story, their voice, matters.” 

Luther said he finds teaching to be “purposeful and meaningful,” and he looks forward to school days. He enjoys watching students grow in real time, rather than seeing growth from a distance through data on a spreadsheet. 

“I get to see students talking to each other about their growth. I get to read their reflections, and the immediacy is something that really is a cool thing,” Luther said. “It’s really recharging to have that front row seat every single day.”

NEWS TIP? Contact reporter Krista Kroiss at [email protected].

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