After years of serving as a steady and familiar presence in the hallways, Mrs. Bohmer is preparing to retire, leaving behind a legacy built not in classrooms or lesson plans, but in quiet moments of support, reassurance, and care. As part of the school’s security support staff, she has spent her days helping monitor the halls and bathrooms, ensuring students feel safe while also offering something just as important: a listening ear.
For Mrs. Bohmer, the most meaningful part of her role has always been the human connection. When asked what she hopes students will remember most about her, her answer is simple but powerful. She hopes they remember she was “always a willing ear to listen” and she “never judged”. More than anything, she wanted students to understand that there are always adults in the building who are willing to listen and support them, even in the smallest moments of their day.
Over the years, working so closely with students has shaped her in unexpected ways. Mrs. Bohmer shared that her interactions with students have helped her stay grounded and connected to younger generations. “I go home and talk like a teenager,” she said with a laugh, explaining that being around students every day has kept her perspective fresh and prevented her from feeling distant or disconnected. In her words, “students keep you young.”
When reflecting on advice for today’s students, Mrs. Bohmer emphasized something she has observed time and time again: the importance of slowing down and appreciating high school life while it lasts. “Don’t rush growing up” she advises. “Enjoy your youth and don’t wish that you were older. Time flies too fast.” She also reminded students that high school is filled with people who genuinely want to help, and encouraged them to not forget the support system around them.
As she looks ahead to retirement, Mrs. Bohmer is excited for a slower pace of life and simple joys that don’t revolve around the constant movement of a school day. One thing she is especially looking forward to is going to walks without “chasing a teenager,” and spending more time in nature. She also mentioned plans to explore walking trails in the woods and enjoying her interest in birdwatching using a bird identification app.
As she prepares to close this chapter, Mrs. Bohmer leaves behind a message that reflects both her career and her character: kindness matters, listening matters, and the small everyday interactions often leave the biggest impact.