As the new school year starts, everyone is getting adjusted, whether for the first time, or for another year, but as each new year begins, new students and staff are welcomed into the Saint Viator community and family. One new staff member is Ms. Annette Bochenek.

Ms. Bochenek is a part of Saint Viator staff as an English teacher. She teaches three types of English and literature classes and is also involved in the National Honor Society. Ms. Bochenek went through many years of school for many different degrees. She received her undergraduate degree in English Literature and Secondary Education at Butler University and her master’s degree at Loyola University. She also attended University of Alabama where she received her master’s degree in library science. Currently, Ms. Bochenek is enrolled in courses through Dominican University to achieve her Ph.D. in library science.

Before choosing to teach full-time at Saint Viator, Ms. Bochenek used to be a long-term substitute for teachers in the English Department who were out on maternity leave. Two years ago, Ms. Bochenek took a job at Regina Dominican, an all-girl school in Wilmette, Illinois, and taught there until this year. At Saint Viator, Ms. Bochenek teaches Literature and Composition I to freshmen and AP English Language and Composition and American Literature to juniors.

Ms. Bochenek is also the co-moderator of National Honor Society.

“National Honor Society is an opportunity to recognize high school students with exceptional capabilities in the classroom,” Ms. Bochenek said. “These students also show excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Character throughout the year and years prior to their induction.”

This program is offered to juniors and seniors. Those who are accepted lead others who need extra academic help. Some activities this group is involved in are helping at open house, peer tutoring, ushering and fundraising.

“The experience of being a substitute teacher [at Saint Viator] prepared me for my first teaching job at Regina,” said Ms. Bochenek.

Also, because she had taught here before, Ms. Bochenek felt like part of the Saint Viator family and was excited to return.