Boise, Idaho – Sierra Bohamera, affectionately known as “Miss Bo,” has spent eight years turning math class at Capital High School into a lively, collaborative experience. Drawing on her own struggles with math in elementary school, Bohamera now leads students in fast‑paced group challenges where teams race to solve up to 20 problems, earning points and applause.
Teaching philosophy rooted in encouragement
Bohamera says the key to her success is positive reinforcement and building on each student’s strengths. “When they get the right answer they can beat the other team, and that excitement keeps them engaged,” she explains. Principal Derek Gardner notes the classroom is rarely quiet, describing the atmosphere as “a very productive noise.”
Social‑media outreach
Since 2021, Bohamera has extended her classroom presence to TikTok under the handle @ThatTrendyTeacher, where she shares lesson ideas, teacher outfits, and snapshots of life around Boise. Her videos have attracted more than 500,000 followers, with additional hundreds of thousands on Instagram. She says she posts with “the lens of my student is watching and my school is watching,” hoping to provide a positive adult role model for both students and fellow educators.
Balancing work and life
Beyond the math drills, Bohamera emphasizes a healthy work‑life balance. She wants students to see that teachers can love their jobs while enjoying life outside the classroom. “When you grow up, and if you want to do similar things, you can see a positive adult role model in your life,” she says.
Addressing modern challenges
When asked about current obstacles, Bohamera points to the rise of AI tools. “Teaching students how to use AI productively rather than just to get answers is a new challenge,” she notes, underscoring her commitment to guiding students responsibly in a digital age.
Through her innovative teaching methods and online presence, Bohamera aims to show that math can be approachable, that students can tackle hard tasks, and that educators can thrive both in and out of the classroom.
Original reporting: Idaho Education News — read the source article.
