Teacher Spotlight: Mrs. Boheen

In every school, there are educators who go above and beyond to inspire, guide, and support their students - and this week, I had the pleasure of being able to shine the spotlight on one exceptional teacher. Mrs. Boheen, a dedicated Anatomy and Living Environment teacher, has been making a lasting impact with her passion for education, innovative teaching methods, and unwavering commitment to student success. From energizing lessons to unforgettable classroom moments, get ready to meet the teacher who's not just shaping minds but leaving a legacy.

Mrs. Boheen’s journey into education began long before she stepped into a classroom. While she always had a passion for learning, especially in subjects like ecology and climate change, her path wasn’t entirely linear. In college, she explored different interests and found herself drawn to education. A transformative chemistry lab experience, where she was invited to be a teaching assistant, helped ignite her love for teaching. A study abroad program in Italy, where she spent seven weeks learning about the history of diseases, also left a lasting impact. What stood out most during college, however, were the professors who treated her with respect and as an equal. That experience now shapes the way she interacts with her own students. She strives to treat them like young adults rather than just children.

Although she once considered careers in journalism and law, and even led as captain of her cheerleading team, it was her sister’s influence as a teacher that nudged her toward the classroom. Today, building meaningful relationships with her students is at the core of her teaching philosophy. "Forty minutes isn’t enough to know someone," she says, "but I try to learn about their interests and show them their feelings matter." Beyond academics, she believes one of the most important lessons she can teach is how to advocate for oneself–how to ask questions, seek help, and speak up when it matters.

Over the years, Mrs. Boheen has learned to let go of the small stuff, focusing instead on helping students grasp key concepts and develop real-world skills. She incorporates technology in her classroom, encouraging students to go beyond what they can simply Google. She also supports struggling students through honest conversations and empathy, knowing that emotional well-being is often just as important as academic progress. Though she acknowledges the increasing challenges—like cell phone distractions and inconsistent administrative support—she keeps going with pep talks and a sense of humor. “We got this,” she tells herself and her students.

When asked what keeps her grounded, Mrs. Boheen reflects on a powerful personal belief: “I could die at any moment, so I try to be happy and kind. Don’t sweat the small things.” It's a mindset that has helped her create an open, supportive environment for her students. She hopes to leave behind more than just knowledge—she wants to leave behind kindness, resilience, and a reminder to always make good choices. Her advice to future educators is honest: the job is hard, especially in the beginning, and the work is never really done. But for those with the heart for it, the impact is immeasurable.