“Some people think we just play all day, but that’s really how I’m able to assess and teach,” she adds. “Many of my students are nonverbal, so we’re constantly working on communication – using visuals, core boards, anything that helps give them language.”
School leaders say Bohling’s impact is felt well beyond her classroom.
“Ms. Bohling is pure magic in the classroom. She has an incredible ability to meet each student exactly where they are and communicate in a way that helps them feel seen, understood and capable,” says Anna Coutant, principal of Northlake Elementary. “Because of her, our youngest learners are not only growing; they are thriving.”
For Bohling, her love for teaching is most meaningful in the moments she shares with students, especially the ones she doesn’t always get to see grow up.
She recalls a recent open house, when a former student, now in second grade, ran up to greet her.
“He came in with his mom and dad and said, ‘Ms.Bohling!’ and gave me a big hug,” she says excitedly. “He told me, ‘I have to come see you every year because you’re my favorite teacher.’”
Since many of her students move on to other schools, moments like these are rare, but lasting.
“He then told me, ‘You helped me talk,’” she says proudly. “And I said, ‘I did help you talk.’”