Student teaching is a significant commitment that provides aspiring educators with a valuable opportunity to delve into the realities of the profession. Mike Bodden, known as Mr. Mike, is approaching the conclusion of his student teaching experience and is enthusiastic about moving forward in his career within an elementary school environment. As a 2025 graduate from Lewis Clark State—where he is pursuing a Primary Elementary Degree with a Literacy endorsement—Mr. Mike has devoted eight months to student teaching, spending four months at Orchards Elementary and currently completing his experience at Centennial.
During his initial four months, he worked with a 4th-grade class and is now collaborating with Mrs. Sauder in 1st grade. Mr. Mike aspires to teach in the local community, and with a strong family background in education, he has the support and determination necessary to engage with young learners, particularly in grades K-2. When asked about his motivation for teaching, Mike expressed that he aims to inspire others to learn, just as his teacher did for him.
Mike, who prefers summer over winter, enjoys various hobbies, including hiking, fishing, playing video games, reading, and collecting vinyl records. When it comes to his favorite food, he chose pizza, and in music, he favors pop, especially artists like Olivia Rodrigo. He dreams of traveling to places such as Spain, Germany, and Switzerland. If teaching weren’t his chosen path, Mike would opt to become a Hollywood director due to his passion for storytelling. When asked to share a phrase that encapsulates the key to a happy life, he stated, “comparison is the thief of joy.” Best of luck, Mike! Our Centennial 1st graders have truly enjoyed having you with us!