Mrs. DeGennaro

Meet Mrs. DeGennaro, 5th grade teacher! Our Amazing Fifth Grade Teacher at Marblehead

We are excited to spotlight Mrs. DeGennaro, who teaches fifth grade at Marblehead Elementary. She's been with us for six years, was named Teacher of the year in 2021-2022, and loves being part of our school.

From Ireland to California

I was born in Ireland and moved to San Clemente when she was two and attended Concordia Elementary, Shorecliffs Middle School, and San Clemente High School. She moved back to Ireland with her family and attended college in Dublin before returning to San Clemente and settling down with her husband. She frequently travels back to Ireland to visit her family!

Why She Loves Teaching

Mrs. DeGennaro loves teaching fifth graders because they're starting to discover their interests and personalities. She gets excited when her students have those "aha" moments, whether solving a complex math problem or understanding a new concept in reading.

Before Marblehead

Mrs. DeGennaro earned a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education from the Dublin Institute of Technology in Dublin, Ireland. She then went on to get her teaching credential and Master’s in Literacy and Reading from California State University Fullerton.

She started her teaching career at a middle school in Santa Ana, working with deaf and hard-of-hearing students before joining the teaching team at Marblehead.

What Makes Marblehead Special?

“I think our students and community are what make Marblehead mighty! I have never worked in a school where everyone (teachers, parents, and students) works so hard together to make our school a wonderful place! I love that we get to know ALL students at the school!”

A Tip for Parents

Mrs. DeGennaro encourages parents to overcommunicate with her! If their child has a toothache, didn’t sleep well, or is sad about their soccer game, let her know! She will give them the support they need at school without having to guess what is wrong.

Advice for Students

Her advice for students is simple: "Always remember that your actions speak louder than your words!"

Her Life Outside School

Mrs. DeGennaro loves adventure books and Harry Potter (ask her about visiting the sets in London!). She likes hiking and traveling with her husband to beautiful places like Croatia and Bali. They're excited to welcome their first child soon!