Through highlighting various teachers as honorary coaches this basketball season, we are learning more about the diverse and interesting lives these professionals bring to the chalkboard (or whiteboard, as it were). Marion Foster (formely Randow) is no exception. Believe it or not, she is in her 37th year in the education field.

Born in Corpus Christi, she graduated from Tuloso- Midway High School and married.

Marion started her higher education goals after having two sons. She graduated with an associate degree in English from Del Mar College in Corpus, then completed her Bachelor of Science in education from Texas A&I University in Kingsville.

She is in her 14th year at Lampasas, the last three as a guidance counselor. Over the years, Mrs. Foster has taught English, speech and theater, and she has sponsored cheerleading, pep squads, UIL academic teams, Student Council and Junior Prom, in addition to serving as class sponsor for various grades.

Her most-rewarding extracurricular “duty” was as theater director for One-Act Play. It was more like fun than work, she said. She was involved in theater for 25 years and witnessed students realizing the excitement of doing something many of them never thought they could or would do. Many former students come back and tell her that of all their high school experiences, being part of the One-Act Play was not only one of their more memorable times but also their most fun.

During Mrs. Foster’s 22 years at the high school level, her students won district in One- Act Play 18 years, won area 11 of those years, advanced to regionals and were alternate to state eight times and placed third in state in 1993. Many of her theater students also were involved in other extracurricular activities and sports. She believes it helps their competitive edge and desire to perform with excellence. She attributes her accolades to her outstanding and talented students, but we know it takes a good teacher to inspire students to perform to their potential.

Besides her love for her sons and three grandsons, Mrs. Foster loves live theater, especially musicals, a good movie and sports. Her sons and grandsons all played football, basketball and ran track. Her youngest son also played tennis.

She earned her master’s degree in counseling a few years ago and took a position at LHS as guidance counselor. Her passion always has been working with young people. And what has not changed in the past 37 years, she insists, is that students need to know they are cared about and that someone believes in them and their ability to succeed. She considers working with high school students a gift, and seeing them succeed in life is a priceless reward.

Mrs. Foster has helped many students realize their dreams and continues to inspire many more -- loving every minute.

All information provided by LHS Slam Dunk Club.