Sierra Atkins has been recognized for her dedication to teaching Spanish and promoting Latin-American culture, earning the title of 2026 Idaho Language Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made in her classroom at Les Bois Junior High in Boise, Idaho, on the final day of the fall semester in December. Atkins was chosen from five finalists, three of whom also hailed from the Boise district.
Atkins attributes her success to her adaptability, cultural knowledge, and passion for the Spanish language. With over two decades of teaching experience, she has integrated her personal experiences into her lessons. Having been a high school exchange student in Costa Rica and later studying in the Dominican Republic and Cuba, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her students. Each semester, her classes create vibrant Mexican party banners that adorn the classroom, enhancing the learning environment.
Over her 21 years of teaching, Atkins has navigated changes in language instruction methods with enthusiasm. “I’m not scared to step outside of [how] I’ve taught,” she remarked, emphasizing her commitment to providing authentic learning experiences. She actively incorporates new ideas into her teaching approach, believing that such innovation enriches her students’ experiences.
Atkins enjoys working with young learners and has shared her expertise with a number of student-teachers, welcoming at least seven to her classroom. “A lot of teachers don’t like sharing their classroom because they don’t like to give up control,” she noted, highlighting her collaborative spirit.
Originally from Bend, Oregon, Atkins graduated from Boise State University with a degree in Spanish. Despite her initial uncertainty about how to utilize her language skills after graduation, her high school teachers inspired her to pursue a teaching career. “I had really phenomenal teachers in high school that just made me love it,” she said. This passion led her to Eastern Oregon University, where she earned a graduate teaching degree.
After a brief stint at Boise High School, Atkins returned to Les Bois Junior High, where she has spent the majority of her career. Reflecting on her experiences, she stated, “We get a fresh start every day,” a sentiment that underscores her positive approach to teaching challenges. Her enthusiasm for teaching is palpable, and she believes that her students recognize her love for the profession.
The prestigious award, presented by the Idaho Association of Teachers of Language and Culture, will enable Atkins to represent Idaho at the Pacific Northwest Council for Languages in April 2024 in Portland, Oregon. Her recognition not only highlights her individual achievements but also emphasizes the value of language education in today’s multicultural society.
