For Molly Selders, teaching at Macomb High School is more than a career—it’s a calling that has allowed her to inspire students both in the classroom and on the stage. An English teacher with 23 years of experience, 16 of them at Macomb, Molly has taught nearly every grade level, but her passion for literature and theater drives her work in a unique and memorable way.

Molly’s journey into education began in a somewhat unconventional way. Growing up, she often found herself critiquing how lessons were taught in her own classes. After earning degrees in English and anthropology, she initially considered graduate school but discovered her true passion for teaching while working with children’s books in retail. “I realized I wanted to teach these books, not just sell them,” she recalls. This realization led her to the University of Virginia, where she completed her teaching certification, shaped her educational philosophy, and developed a deep appreciation for the importance of public education.

Molly’s approach to teaching is rooted in the belief that every student deserves access to a quality education and the opportunity to grow. “It’s about creating an educated citizenry,” she says, emphasizing the value of lifelong learning and critical thinking. In her English classes, she encourages students to connect with literature in personal and meaningful ways, often blending creativity with analysis.

Beyond her work as an English teacher, Molly has become a cornerstone of Macomb High School’s thriving theater program, which she has led since 2017. Under her direction, the program has grown significantly, with participation more than doubling over the years. “When I started, we had about 13 or 14 students auditioning for the fall play,” she says. “This past year, we had over 30. It’s amazing to see how much the program has grown and how many students want to be part of something bigger.”

One of Molly’s most notable contributions is the variety and ambition of the productions she directs. From Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing set in 1970s New York disco to minimalist adaptations of Sense and Sensibility, Molly encourages her students to think creatively and take ownership of their work. “Theater is about trust—trusting yourself, your castmates, and the crew,” she explains. “It’s a collaborative process where everyone contributes to something greater than themselves.”

Molly’s efforts go beyond performances. She leads a vibrant Thespian Club, with more than 40 active members, that not only supports the theater program but also engages in community service projects. One standout initiative is the club’s annual “Trick or Treat So Kids Can Eat” food drive. Organized entirely by students, the event involves distributing flyers and collecting donations on Halloween. “It’s a great way for students to give back to the community while having fun,” Molly says. “This year, we filled a minivan to the brim with food for the local pantry.”

Inclusivity is at the heart of Molly’s work in theater. Whether students want to act, manage the stage, run the spotlight, or decorate the lobby, there’s a place for everyone. “Theater is about finding your niche,” she explains. “You don’t have to be a performer to belong here. There’s a role for every interest and talent.”

This inclusivity extends to the productions themselves, which often incorporate student-driven elements. From designing posters and creating social media campaigns to decorating the front of the house, students are involved in every aspect of the process. “Everything we do is student-driven and focused,” Molly emphasizes. “What we create together is always better than anything we could do alone.”

Molly’s dedication to fostering a sense of community within the program has had a lasting impact, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Even when in-person gatherings weren’t possible, the Thespian Club continued to meet virtually and outdoors, gaining new members in the process. “The students value the community we’ve built,” she says. “They support each other, and that’s what makes it so special.”

Molly’s influence extends far beyond the stage. As a mother of two students at Washington University in St. Louis, she understands the importance of helping young people find their paths. Her own journey—marked by listening to her heart and pursuing what she loves—serves as an example to her students of the power of passion and perseverance.

Through her work in English and theater, Molly Selders has created a space where students can explore their creativity, build confidence, and find their voices. Her contributions to Macomb High School and the broader community are a testament to the transformative power of education and the arts.