Shining a Light on . . . Christina Bolden

As 1st-6th grade science teacher for SAA and SDS, Mrs. Bolden is in a pretty unique role, and her job is never boring! Now in her third year, she is looking forward to the opening of the new Center for Excellence in Math & Science and the opportunities for collaboration and new lab experiences the facility will bring. Take a minute to get to know Mrs. Bolden a little better and learn why she loves teaching science!

What is your educational background?

I have Bachelor’s Degrees in both Chemistry and Education from Arkansas State University, and a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology from the University of Arkansas.

Why did you want to become an educator?

Growing up, I witnessed the profound impact my mother had on her students and knew that being an educator was a job that I could be proud of and would enjoy. I have always liked school and have a curious mind, so I was naturally drawn to teach math and science-based subjects.

You are in a unique role at the school, teaching both genders and multiple age levels. What is most challenging about that and what is the best part?

The most challenging part of my job is creating different ways to deliver the same content.  Boys and girls learn in different ways so adjusting my science lessons to each grade level and each gender allows me to stretch my creativity to ensure my students enjoy learning and comprehend the material.  The most exciting part is seeing the "light bulb" moments. When a student learns something new or figures out something that was challenging, it creates a spark that encourages them to want to learn more.

What makes the science department/curriculum at SAA-SDS special?

Having flexibility with the curriculum and within the science department makes SAA-SDS standout compared to other schools. SAA-SDS values the whole child and their experience more than standardized test results. I can teach to the child and teach specifically to the needs of our students.  I'm able to incorporate soft skills into my lessons that other schools do not allow.  Students are encouraged to try new things and to think creatively instead of memorizing facts and regurgitating them back on a test.  This way of learning will better prepare our students for the challenges they will face in the future.

This is an exciting time to be in the science department, with the new building becoming a reality. How will the new facilities enhance the educational experience for the students and the teachers?

I'm thrilled about the new building!  I'm excited about the designated spaces throughout the building-the robotics area, STEM lab and other science labs. My younger students will be able to see what the Junior High and Upper School math and scienceclasses are studying and how it overlaps to the areas of science that they are also learning.  I look forward to teachers and students alike being able to collaborate and share the amazing things that are going on inside of their classrooms. 

What do you hope to accomplish in your job? 

As students get older the pressure of studying and keeping good grades pulls some of the joy away from learning something new. I hope that my own enthusiasm in the classroom encourages students to continue to be excited about learning, even when it's hard. 

What do you enjoy most about your job?

From class to class and day to day, there is always something fun and exciting going on in the lives of my students, and they love to share those moments and stories with me.  I cherish the connections that I'm making and the positive influence that I hope I have on their life as well.  Within my classroom, I love doing hands-on activities and labs. I like being able to provide students the time and place to discover the nature of science.

Are there any projects you are working on that you are particularly excited about?

Right now, I’m incorporating more technology and tech skills into our everyday science lessons.  Our students are very blessed to have access to top quality devices and consistent internet access.  I want them to understand the capability of their devices and how to use them safely and successfully.  Our 6th grade classes spend a semester learning computer science, online safety, and coding.  I also have held several coding classes and coding summer camps throughout the past few years.  This semester I am teaching a computer programming class after school for 2nd through 6th grade.  This class focuses more on handheld devices along with coding. 

What is the most important life lesson you want students to learn?

I want my students to learn resilience and perseverance.  I want them to be comfortable with the idea that mistakes are going to happen, but we can try again with more knowledge than we had before. Mistakes are opportunities to learn and proof that you tried.

Which of the Dominican Pillars-Study, Prayer, Community, Service-impacts you the most/means the most to you?

Prayer.  For me, everything goes back to prayer. No matter if it’s a good day or a bad day, we need prayers of thanksgiving, hope, and love. Faith and prayers will help guide us through all areas of the Dominican Pillars.

What are you most grateful for?

This new year I started keeping a gratitude journal.  In just these few weeks I have become more grateful for the small blessings I experience everyday- rather than expecting great awe-inspiring moments from life. 

What are your interests outside of the classroom?

Outside of the classroom I enjoy spending time with my two daughters.  They are both very active so I’m usually chasing after them to sporting events, practices, and plays.  I also love spending time with family, typically enjoying a good meal and conversation.  When I’m not chasing kids or visiting family, I can usually be found curled up with a book.  I love to read-it doesn’t matter what genre or age group!