CRT Spotlights are intended to encourage and inspire fellow teachers of the faith. Know a religion teacher who deserves to be featured? Please send me their name and e-mail address via my Contact page. Thanks!

INTRODUCTION

Name:
Katie Bogner

What teaching positions have you had and for how long?
6th-8th Religion Teacher (3 years), 5th Grade Teacher (6 years), 6th Grade ELA and Social Studies Teacher (3 years)

Where have you taught?
St. Philomena, Peoria, IL – St. Joseph, Pekin, IL – Midland Middle School, Sparland, IL

JUST FOR FUN

FAVORITE: Bible verse or story
Psalm 34:2-9

FAVORITE: Saint
Impossible to choose one! St. Joseph, St. Catherine of Siena, St. Maximilian Kolbe, St. John Paul II, and Ven. Fulton J. Sheen are a few!

FAVORITE: Food
Chex Mix (but only homemade – not the store bought stuff) 😉

FAVORITE: Book (besides the Bible) 😁
Life of Christ by Fulton J. Sheen

FAVORITE: Movie
Return to Me

FAVORITE: Vacation spot
Mountains

FAVORITE: Thing(s) to do in your free time
Art: Watercolor, embroidery, drawing, block carving, etc.

FROM THE CLASSROOM

What do you enjoy most about being a Catholic religion teacher?
The ability to show how what we believe can be and should be incorporated in all we say, read, learn, and do.

What religion topic/lesson do enjoy teaching the most?
Helping my students enter into and celebrate the Liturgical Seasons, as well as talking about the Saints (especially in regards to helping them find their Confirmation Saints!)

What is something your students have taught you?
The wonder and beauty of open hearts and minds, especially in prayer and when facing big challenges in life.

What is a “win” (story of success) that you have experienced through your role as a religion teacher?
In my current position, I get to spend three years with the same students. Watching them grow and seeing their faith develop over that time is such a great gift!

What is a struggle or challenge you have experienced as a religion teacher?
The desire to help the students understand that the timeless faith we believe in is relevant and relatable to their lives and situations.

What have you found to be most effective in helping your students develop a strong relationship with Christ and His Church?
Built in time for prayer as well as providing them with tools and skills they can use outside of school.

What kind of advice or encouragement would you most want to share with a brand-new religion teacher?
Put prayer first: pray for your students and pray with your students! It sounds simple, but is so easy to rush or push aside. Make it a daily priority and it will form the rest of your teaching.

CONCLUSION

How can other teachers connect with you?
Website: www.looktohimandberadiant.com
Instagram: @katherine.bogner
Book: Through the Year with Jesus: Gospel Readings and Reflections for Children
Email: looktohimandberadiant@gmail.com