When Annie Bolduc returned to the classroom in September after an absence of six years, the Boothbay Region Elementary School fourth grade teacher was continuing her family’s tradition.

That tradition includes her parents, who both taught school on Islesboro, her sister who teaches kindergarten in Richmond and her brother who teaches math on Islesboro for grades seven through 12.

Bolduc, of Waldoboro, is from Islesboro and attended school there. She graduated from University of Maine at Farmington and taught in Vermont and at Great Salt Bay School in Damariscotta.

She left teaching to become owner of Consigning Women in Damariscotta and operated the business for six years, but she wanted to return to teaching. “I missed the structure and the strong community in education,” she said. Hearing from former students who said she had touched their lives drew her back to the family profession.

Bolduc learned in mid-August that she would be teaching fourth grade at BRES. As she explained, “I took a few courses to re-up my certification and was able to start at the beginning of this school year.” She likes engaging with fourth graders because, “At that age, students have some experiences so they start to own their learning.” Bolduc is excited to be part of the BRES team.

Asked about any effects on her students from previous COVID home schooling, Bolduc said, “It’s taking a while for students to settle back down and to learn routines. The important thing for a teacher is to stay consistent and be patient and the learning will come.”

So far this year, her class has traveled to Burnt Island to learn about tide pools and aquatic systems and there may be a follow-up trip next spring. Bolduc also welcomes community involvement in the classroom. “Hands-on learning makes more of a difference. It’s very powerful.”

What does she find challenging about teaching? “Leaving school at school. You care so much about the kids, you need to find a balance. Being prepared and letting teaching happen organically” helps her meet the challenges.

Bolduc’s time away from the classroom is spent with her dogs, Patch and Koda, and she spends time outdoors taking them for walks. She is also involved with her family and friends and enjoys time with them.

Asked if her teacher parents gave her any advice about teaching, she answered, “They said it’s the hardest but most rewarding job you’ll ever have. And both said it offers a great way to have time with family.”