NV In Focus: Robb Bouma Embracing Culture

The NV In Focus series presents the people who make NV Schools exceptional
 
The 29-year educational career of Robb Bouma doesn’t follow a normal track. After a stint teaching in Whatcom County, Bouma and his wife were drawn to the idea of experiencing another culture alongside their passion for education. That took them across the world and eventually back to Whatcom County where he’s in his seventh year at Nooksack Valley Middle School.
 
“I discovered that I especially enjoy the energy, curiosity and enthusiasm of middle school students,” he says. “Nooksack Valley Schools is a really special place to be. While I’ve had the opportunity to teach in some amazing places around the world, I would place NVSD at the top of my list. The community is incredibly supportive and very family oriented, and that sense of connection makes a real difference in the school experience.”
 
Bouma should know. His career has taken him to unique locales. The first overseas experience landed the Boumas in China. They went on to teach in Saudi Arabia and India. “We cherish the cultural experiences, lifelong friendships and incredible people we met and worked with along the way,” he says. After returning home with their children in 2020, they’ve been enjoying the Nooksack Valley community ever since.
 
Bouma teaches eight grade math and science, “where I am fortunate to work alongside an amazing teaching team.” His role involves helping students build strong academic foundations while encouraging them to think critically, solve problems and develop confidence in their learning.
 
“I place a high value on building positive relationship with students,” he says. “Middle school can be a challenging time, and I want my classroom to be a place where students feel supported, respected and comfortable taking risks in their learning. My goal is for students to leave my classroom not only with a stronger understanding of math and science, but also with a greater belief in what they are capable of. I want them to experience success as they transition into high school.”
 
Outside of the school, the family—which now includes two adult children—still enjoys traveling and exploring other cultures, experiencing new places and meeting people from diverse backgrounds. Closer to home, the family embraces the outdoor lifestyle offered in Whatcom County, all while volunteering at their local church and spending time with extended family. It’s all part of a distinct embracing of culture.