Marlene White is passionate about advocating for students and families. Prior to joining Whiz Kids in 2020 as a program manager, she worked in public education for 17 years as a teacher at Rockwood, early childhood coordinator for OKCPS, Promethean education consultant traveling and training teachers across the country, instructional coach for OKCP, and as a remedial specialist at Heronville. Through this unique blend of expertise, Marlene has been devoted to strengthening young readers with community partners by giving students hope and building strong relationships.

Marlene is a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma with a bachelor's degree in early childhood and a master’s degree in educational leadership. She earned a National Board Certification in 2010. She is a proud mother of four sons and two daughters that keep her laughing and busy. Outside of work and school, Marlene’s family enjoys family games, packing up for short road trips, hiking, traveling and attending local community events. She loves reading, watching movies and spending time with her family, friends and fur-babies.

“There’s no limit to where reading can take us!”

Favorite Book: I have a ton of favorite nonfiction books that I love to read. My favorite authors are Adam Grant, John Maxwell, Mark Batterson, Seth Godin, Malcom Gladwell, Jon Gordon and Simon Sinek just to name a few. Reading the book "The Body Keeps the Score,” by Bassel van der Kolk M.D., has helped me understand what some of our families and students face. As a community, we can help create change for a better future for our families.