Brookfield Central Class of 2009
2009 Lancer graduate, Nicole Boedeker has been making a difference in the lives of children as a teacher in Verona, WI.
A second generation Elmbrook graduate, Nicole began her journey at Burleigh Elementary for Kindergarten through 2nd grade before transitioning to Brookfield Elementary for 3rd to 5th grade, followed by Wisconsin Hills Middle School and Brookfield Central High School. While at Central, Boedeker was actively involved in a variety of activities throughout her four years, including softball, tennis, cross country, NHS, Tyro, Photo Club, tech crew for BCTV, band, jazz band, and yearbook. "The quality of education in Elmbrook was incredible," reflected Nicole. "I appreciated my teachers, being academically-challenged, and the opportunity to try different things in order to figure out my strengths and weaknesses. The AP courses I took while in high school helped me shave off a whole year of college!"
Boedeker expressed gratitude for a number of her Elmbrook teachers that helped shape her academic journey. Her fifth grade teacher, Sara Meissner's positive energy and dedication to her students inspired Nicole to become a teacher, and Tom Juran's encouragement of creativity and trust in his students showed Nicole the powerful payoff of hard work and wise choices. "Jason Gillette, Jill Michalak, Matt Dapelo, David Smith, and Dan Paese all have a passion for what they teach and their ability to truly connect with students made each day a great experience," she expressed.
Nicole graduated from BCHS in 2009 and continued her education at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. During her time in Minnesota, she volunteered with several community groups, worked at a special needs summer camp, and studied abroad in Norway. In 2012, Boedeker graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Foundations and a minor in English as a Second Language. She earned her Masters in Elementary Education from the University of Minnesota in 2013.
Following her college graduation, Nicole began teaching kindergarten at Core Knowledge Charter School (CKCS) in Verona, WI, and in July 2014, Nicole married her husband, Jeremy Boedeker. She taught kindergarten for three years before transitioning to second grade at CKCS and is finishing up her fifth year of teaching. "I love the kids that I get to work with," said Nicole. "Being able to build trusting relationships with my students is the best part of my job and I love seeing them overcome challenges and witnessing their excitement when they've reached their goals."
Through her time at CKCS, Boedeker has been involved in various committees and leadership opportunities that her school offers and beginning next school year, she will serve as its K-8 Curriculum Coordinator.
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