Our Employee of the Month is Malorie Hall from Ohio!
Malorie has taught with Apollo for two years now. She started off as an educator and recently transitioned to a Site Director. Malorie is always on top of things and has been working hard to make sure the program runs smoothly and safely. She brings organization, fun, honesty and respect, and her students absolutely love her.
Malorie, thank you for being such an outstanding employee and teacher.
To show our appreciation for your dedication and hard work – please check your email this week for a special gift from us.
Check out our interview with Malorie below:
- Who are you, where do you come from, where are you going?
Hi, my name is Ms. Malorie. I am a recent graduate from Notre Dame College where I majored in Special Education and Music. I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for all students and nurturing a creative mindset.
- How long have you been teaching with Apollo?
I have been teaching with Apollo for the past two years, and during this time, I’ve gained valuable experience working with diverse student groups and refining my instructional methods.
- What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned since you started teaching?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned since I started teaching is the importance of adaptability. Every student learns differently, and what works for one class or individual may not work for another. I’ve learned to continuously assess and adjust my teaching strategies to meet students where they are- academically, socially and emotionally. This flexibility has not only improved student engagement in the classroom and learning outcomes but also helped me grow as an educator by staying open to new methods and perspectives to approach learning.
- How do you motivate your students to succeed?
I motivate students by setting clear goals, making learning relevant to their interests, and celebrating their progress. I also create a positive, supportive environment that encourages effort and growth.
- If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
If I could have any superpower, I’d choose telepathy—being able to understand what people are really thinking and feeling would make it so much easier to help, teach, and connect on a deeper level.
- What is your most memorable memory from your time as an Apollo instructor?
I think my most memorable moment working at Apollo would have to be planning & experiencing my first party as site director. We had a carnival theme & it was exciting seeing how much fun the kids had playing all the carnival themed games. They especially liked the giant Connect Four. They had fun while learning which is major win in my book.
- If you could retire tomorrow and never have to worry about money again, what would you do with your time?
If I could retire tomorrow without money worries, I’d buy a piece of land and build a rescue just for senior dogs. They deserve comfort, love, and peace in their final years- and I’d spend my days making sure they get exactly that.
- What’s your go-to technique for dealing with ‘handful students’?
I stay calm and consistent, set clear classroom expectations, and focus on building positive relationships. I find that understanding the student’s needs and using proactive classroom management—like structured routines and positive reinforcement—helps redirect behavior and keep the whole class on track.
- What is an unusual place you have been to?
I haven’t had the chance to travel much in my life so I can’t say I have been to an unusual place before but there are plenty of opportunities I look forward to in the future.
- Do you have a talent that not many people know about?
One hidden talent I have as a teacher is my ability to create a positive learning environment through humor. It might seem like a small thing, but I can use humor to ease tension, make the class more enjoyable, and help students feel more comfortable. A well-timed joke or funny example can transform a challenging lesson into something less intimidating and more memorable. It helps build a connection with students, making them feel like learning can be fun, not just work.
- What’s your #1 teaching tip?
A great teaching tip is to embrace mistakes as learning opportunities. Create a classroom culture where errors are seen as a natural part of the learning process, rather than something to be feared. This encourages students to take risks, be creative, and learn from their missteps, which ultimately leads to growth and confidence in their abilities.
- What’s your favorite classroom Attention Getter?
One of my favorite attention getters is using a call-and-response technique, like saying, “Macaroni and cheese” and the students respond, “everybody freeze”. It’s quick, interactive, and helps refocus the class in a quick but silly way.
- What is something interesting that you’re involved in, outside of Apollo After School?
Outside of Apollo After School, I’m really into jewelry making and beadwork. I love creating unique pieces by combining different beads, metals, and stones. It’s a great way to unwind and express creativity. Each design feels like a little work of art, and there’s something really satisfying about wearing or gifting something you made yourself.
- How do you spend your summer breaks?
This summer, I’m taking on a new job in special education, which is really exciting! It’s a great opportunity to make a difference while gaining valuable experience. When I’m not working, I love to unwind by hanging out with my friends at music events. It’s the perfect way to relax, enjoy some good tunes, and make the most of my free time!
- Star Wars, Star Trek, or they’re both lame?
Star Wars, hands down. Who wouldn’t want a lightsaber?
- What do you like most about working with Apollo?
What I love most about working with Apollo is how fun and engaging the activities are. At my site, I curate each week around a central theme—like dinosaurs—and every activity, from crafts to stories, ties into it. It keeps the kids excited and makes each day feel like an adventure.
