It was her passion for learning languages that inspired Brooke Christensen to become a Spanish teacher. She was drawn into the Nazareth community by the staff, students, and other educators that she would come to work with.
Christensen said she always wanted to work in education growing up and that she chose to work at Naz because of the school’s focus on teaching the whole student while also preparing them for college.
Christensen describes herself as hardworking, determined, and understanding, three traits that are key when working as a high school teacher. Her favorite part about working with high school students is that they keep her entertained. She also says that working with teenagers feels less like babysitting and more like preparing students for the realities of life after high school. Christensen also likes to remind students that so much of their success relies on their mindset.
This school year, Christensen is excited to see students grow and learn Spanish that they can use in the real world. She believes in supporting all types of learners by meeting them where they are. “I have to teach in a whole bunch of ways at the same time so that every student is learning,” she said. “I want my students to succeed – just to help them get better.”
Her own high school years at Spring Lake Park High School in Minnesota were filled with sports and a few clubs: experiences that shaped her love of teamwork and activity. Outside of the classroom, she continues to stay active through hiking, volleyball, frisbee golf, and spending time with friends.
For Christensen, what makes teaching so exciting is the unpredictability. She comes to school each day with a coffee in hand, never knowing exactly what to expect, except that “on any given day, it could be a great day.”