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Principal's Message

Welcome to a brand-new school year at Thurgood Marshall Elementary—where we believe in the power of One Team, One Dream!

Principal Ford Headshot

I am thrilled to continue this journey with you as your proud principal, and I want to begin by saying thank you—for being our students' first teachers, biggest cheerleaders, and strongest advocates. Your partnership makes all the difference. As we embark on this new year, we do so united in purpose. Our team—teachers, staff, families, and community members—stands together with one goal: ensuring every Marvel scholar thrives academically, socially, and emotionally. It’s not just a slogan; it’s a promise.

This year, we are steadfast in our commitment to academic excellence. Every moment of instruction counts, which is why we are emphasizing on-time, daily attendance. When students are present and on time each day, they are positioned for success—and we need your support in making that happen.

Get ready for a year filled with growth, collaboration, and celebration. From the first bell to the final day, know that your child’s success is our shared mission—and we’re honored to be on this journey with you.

Here’s to a year of teamwork, dreaming big, and achieving more—together.

In partnership,

Marissa Ford

Principal

(713) 636-4606

MFord5@houstonisd.org

A Little About Ms. Ford

Marissa Ford launched her career in education in Houston, Texas, where she taught elementary Math and Science at Shadydale Elementary. Over the years, she has served as a teacher coach, campus instructional technologist, and education technology specialist, supporting schools across Houston ISD with professional development, digital integration, and instructional improvement. Most recently as an assistant principal, Marissa Ford helped lead a significant campus turnaround—improving a school’s TEA accountability rating from an F to a B in just one year. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Stephen F. Austin State University and her Master of Education in Educational Technology Leadership from Lamar University.