Alaska Afterschool Superhero 2023

Karina Marette 

Academic Coach CHILL Time, Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula, Kenai Peninsula Borough School District 

Karina is a superhero in her afterschool program and the community of Homer overall. Karina prioritizes building positive relationships with her students, spending time each session to connect, reflect, and build community. Serving in two different schools/villages, Karina is mindful to use culturally-informed approaches to provide unique offerings for each program. This care for her students creates an atmosphere of belonging and joy in her programs.

Karina continues to build connections outside of the program day, connecting with families to share celebrations; many of those conversations filled with laughter and positive youth recognition. You can also find Karina attending youth volleyball or basketball games because she believes her role of support is not limited to afterschool programming. Outside of her afterschool role, Karina coaches and organizes a youth hockey league, inspiring youth to take a risk and try a new sport.  

Karina puts her all into the CHILL program by researching, planning, and delivering personalized projects that excite kids every week. Her unique combination of creativity, organization, humor, and work ethic is a true inspiration to all.  

Nominated by: Shellie Worsfold, Academic Coach; Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula