With the new school year comes many new teachers, including the new Apex High School math teacher, Ms. Baukema. Keep reading to learn more about her.

Q: What is your previous work experience?

A: I worked in Florida for four years teaching high school math.

Q: Where are you from?

A: I was born in Michigan, but I moved to Florida.

Q: What schools did you attend, and what degrees did you earn there?

A: I went to App State and studied secondary education for math.

Q: Do you have pets?

A: I have an Australian Cattle Dog named Winry.

Q: What is a fun fact about you?

A: I got engaged! I’m getting married in Scotland next summer.

Q: Why did you become a teacher?

A: I had a lot of good, inspiring middle school teachers.

Q: What other jobs did you have before teaching?

A: I worked at Zaxby’s, and I was also a camp counselor.

Q: Why did you choose to teach math?

A: I was good at it in school. I find it really interesting. Everything has an answer, and it’s not up to interpretation.

Q: What are your thoughts about Apex so far?  Likes, dislikes, etc.  How does Apex compare to other schools?

A: I like it a lot. Apex is super welcoming. I work with great kids and coworkers. The only thing I dislike is the AC being broken.

Q: What’s your favorite movie? Book?

A: My favorite movie is Bridesmaids. My favorite book is Where the Crawdads Sing. (She saw the movie, but thinks it could have been better.)

Q: What are your hobbies?

A: I enjoy hiking, backpacking, and camping- really anything outdoors. I also enjoy hanging out with my dog.

Q: What are your pet peeves?

A: Loud chewing and messiness

Q: What were you like as a student?

A: I was a good student. I ran cross country!

Q: What advice would you give students?

A: Put your best foot forward and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Ask questions and get involved.

Q: If you were not teaching, what would you be doing?

A: Accounting probably but ultimately anything in the math field.

Q: Who is or has been an inspiration to you? 

A: My mom because she gets along with everyone and is good at everything. I want to be like her.

Q: What was your most memorable moment as a teacher?

A: One of my students went through a rough time, and I got to be a rock for her. I was able to be there for her and talk with her.

Q: What do you think your students think of you?

A: I hope they like me and feel comfortable enough to come talk to me if they need to.

Apex High School welcomes Ms. Baukema and is excited to see all that she can accomplish here at Apex.