Vision & Mission

At Wilson we empower every student to become lifelong learners. We believe student success is achieved through the following principles and beliefs:

• Students will use the four keys of success: Grit, responsibility, kindness, and respect while striving for academic and personal excellence. Students will use their individual strengths to engage in a collaborative learning environment. 

• Curriculum is student centered, relevant, and rigorous.

• Teachers influence student academic and social success. Teachers model a growth mindset and believe all students can learn and grow. Moreover, teachers reflect and collaborate to implement best practices based on standards and interests of students. 

• Learning at Wilson is collaborative and student centered. Learning at Wilson is active and has no boundaries. Learning at Wilson is designed to meet all student needs. 

We understand that when we work together for student success, everyone achieves more and students are given the opportunity to have endless possibilities for their futures!

Marilyn Wilson was born in Iowa and graduated from high school in Marshalltown, Iowa.  Marilyn graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Iowa.  After graduation she taught English and French at South East Junior High in Iowa City, Iowa.  In 1970 she and her husband, Dr. Ralph (Val) Wilson moved to Mesa with their children.  Dr. Wilson, an orthopedic surgeon, joined Mezona Orthopedics, and Marilyn began her volunteer involvement with the community and especially Mesa Public Schools.

 In 1980 Marilyn was elected to her first term on the Mesa School Board.  She was re-elected for three additional terms and served 16 years with the largest school district in Arizona.  She was Mesa’s Woman of the year in 1984, President of the Arizona School Boards Association and has served as President of numerous community boards such as the Mesa Public Library, Mesa Montessori, Mesa Judicial Advisory Board, Mesa Senior Center, Child Crisis Center and Mesa Foundation for Excellence in Education.  She is currently the President of Mesa Public Schools Employee Benefit Trust.  In May, 2016, Marilyn and her husband were honored to receive the Mesa United Way Spirit of Mesa Award.

 To her great surprise, in 1996, the Mesa Public School District named its new elementary school Marilyn Thiele Wilson Elementary.  Marilyn comes to visit the classrooms and is known to be “Cat in the Hat” who reads a story to all students on Read Across America day.  She can be found greeting and serving students at our annual Wilson BBQ in October.  She is always willing to be present at award ceremonies for students, and to attend concerts and other school activities.  Her presence always inspires each and every one of us to be our best and find the best in others. 

Marilyn and Val are grateful to have three wonderful children, three children-in-law and six grandchildren.