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Q&A with French Teacher Marie Desmons
What brought you to RA?
I was a part-time teacher at the Rudolf Steiner School in Georgetown when I noticed that Landmark Academy was searching for a full-time third-grade assistant. Landmark’s third-grade teacher, Camie Disston, interviewed me and hired me as her assistant. When the school moved to Ridgefield, I continued as an assistant and part-time French teacher until I eventually became the school's full-time French instructor.
 
Tell us about memories from your time teaching at RA that stands out.
At one time, we offered Latin to the fifth grade, and Diana Reid and I taught it together. We had so much fun! We organized Roman banquets where students dressed in traditional garb, memorized poems, and enjoyed Roman cuisine. Those days were truly amazing.
 
Each year, I helped organize an annual Language Fair. The medieval fair organized by a fantastic English teacher, Nancy Burkholder, was another highlight. But my favorite event each year was the Thanksgiving meal before the school closed for the holiday. The entire community would come together to share the meal and celebrate. It was incredibly fun.
 
What is a significant change you have experienced during your 26 years at RA/LP?
When I first started, the school was only based out of the Summit building, and the Annex was still a convent for the retired sisters. There were no classrooms or offices in the Annex—everything was in the Summit building. The move to the Annex was one of the biggest changes I experienced. 
 
Which RA/LP traditions are your favorite?
I love graduation. In the early years, graduation was held in the evening, and the girls all wore long white dresses. I also adore the bell ringing, which is a more recent tradition that didn't exist in the first few years I was here. And, as a fun tradition for everyone, I love Halloween! I love all of the traditions that bring the entire community together.
 
Which former faculty and staff made a lasting impact on you, and why? 
I hit it off immediately with third-grade teacher Camie Disston, and she taught me so much about teaching! And, Former Head of School Jim Heus, who hired me as the French teacher and placed his trust in my abilities. I helped launch the faculty book club, and Jim was part of it. For each meeting, he would prepare a dinner inspired by the book’s theme, and we would discuss the book over dinner at his residence. Director of Facilities Larry Curry, former
Chorus and Drama teacher Debbi Curry, and English teacher Patricia Carrington, were original members of the book club.
 
Do you have a favorite RA memory as a French instructor? 
I used to take my students to my house for a French cooking class, where we would make lunch together. Before cooking, I would take them to the supermarket with a list of ingredients in French, and they would shop. Our elaborate lunches always included both savory and sweet crepes. I would teach them to set the table with instructions in French, and once the meal was ready and the table set, we would all eat together.
 
For two consecutive years, I also took my eighth-grade students to France! We had great fun. We stayed at my parents' house in Normandy and their apartment in Paris, making it a more personal experience. 
 
Where is your favorite spot on campus?
My favorite space on campus is anywhere that faces the amazing mountain view. The patio off Head of School Tom Main's office is particularly special. During COVID, when we couldn’t all eat together, a few of us would spread out on his patio and have lunch there. I loved those picnics! I often taught French out there during the pandemic, too. The students found it easier to learn and understand the language outside without masks. 
 
What makes RA special?
For me, this school and its community have become my second home. From the very beginning, there has been so much love and support. As a single mom, it allowed me to keep my kids in school in Ridgefield. It has been a lifesaver and a transformative experience.