Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Marion.
So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was supposed to be the first person in my family to graduate from high school, but that dream was shattered by a state exam. I wanted to commit suicide. I thought I was dumb, ignorant, and stupid. That state exam hunted me for four years. I thought only smart people could pass that test. I had one of algebra teacher heard I wasn’t able to graduate and she came and gave me the biggest hug and began to speak life into me. She told me to soar like the eagle she knew I was. I was broken and hurt. I felt that I let my family and my self down. God had a plan for my life even though I was in a dark place. God put people in my life to lift me up. Ten years later, I received my high school diploma and found out that I have a learning disability called Dyscalculia I see numbers backwards. I went on to receive my college degree with God by my side and helpful counselors. I am a testimony that God can turn our mess into a blessing. I opened Teacher Resale Shop last year in which I had over 2500 teachers in attendance. My store helps educators save money on supplies for their classrooms. I wanted to help teachers just like my algebra teacher helped me.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has not been easy! When a person has a learning disability, many small obstacles to some folks look like mountains to us. I had to learn how to focus on my focus. It’s many times I have to go over things four times just to make sure everything is right. I cry sometimes because I don’t understand. I thank God every day for equipping others with gifts such as CPA’s, websites, and others who take the time to help me understand.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Teacher Resale Shop – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
My store sells resaleable items to educators or anyone who is interested in buying educational items. We operate under the umbrella of Teacher Appreciation Program which is my 501(c)3 Nonprofit Organization. We are able to appreciate teachers throughout the year by providing varies events. We also give away book stipend scholarships to teach kids whose parents work for a DFW school district. What sets us apart is that we are the only Teacher Resale Shop in the DFW area doing what we do for educators. Many organizations help students with school supplies, but educators need help as well. Students only bring supplies once a year and many don’t have funds to purchase at all. This leaves the burden to fall on the teachers and truthfully school supplies should be given to students more than once a year.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
My plans to have a Teacher Resale Shop throughout the state of Texas not just in the DFW area, because many teachers can use my store in their area.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I would like to give shout outs to some folks who have made a impact in my life: My mother (Janice Cummings), My hubby (Jarrett Marion), My sister (Shanica Burrell and her family), My brother and his wife (Gregory and Ebony Cummings and their family), My sister and brother in law (Brian and Alexus Collier and their family), My brother and sister in law (Ronnie and Noelia Marion and their family), My awesome Father in law Mr. Ronaldo Marion) My Algebra Teacher (Mary Strain), My Pastor and friend Rev. John Reed – Walls of Jericho Deliverance Church, My home church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana (Sweet Home B.C) and to all my friends and family to many to name I thank you all for encouraging me, loving me, and pushing me to be the person I am today! Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Pricing:
- Books .25 to $1.00
- Educational Games $1.00 to $20.00
- Teacher books $3.00
Contact Info:
- Address: 3330 Matlock Rd Ste 118 A Arlington, Tx 76015
- Website: teacherappreciationprogram.org
- Phone: 8172171257
- Email: teacherappreciationprogram@gmail.com
- Facebook: Teacher Resale Shop
Image Credit:
Micheal Phillips Photographer
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
