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Behind the Chalkboard: Amanda Hallam

Welcome to Behind the Chalkboard, which gives readers an inside look at the teachers in the community, why they do what they do and their lives outside of the classroom.

Amanda Hallam

Teaches choir and broadcasting at Garrett Junior High School.

Teaching for 13 years and just finished eighth year at Garrett.

Why did you become a teacher?

I specifically became a junior high teacher because it was the low point (in my time as a student). I survived it because of my band teacher. I found music. It helped navigate through a tough time. I’m paying it forward with what happened to me.

What is your favorite part of teaching?

That moment of seeing a kid find a passion and being able to facilitate that passion. I also enjoy having them come back and thank me.

What do you do for fun when you’re not teaching?

I have a husband, and we have two boys. We like to travel. I’m also into yoga.

If you were not a teacher, what would you be doing?

Improv comedy. My goal was to be on “Saturday Night Live” or be a stay-at-home mom.

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Occupational therapists ask, “What matters to you?” instead of “What’s the matter with you?”

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This past weekend, the Boulder City Parks and Recreation gym played host to the Spring Model Train Show. There, hobby enthusiasts bought, sold and displayed their trains.

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Exciting news for our students and community! The Clark County School District (CCSD) will be implementing the shorter version of the SBAC, Nevada’s state assessment for reading, math, science, and writing.

A busy few weeks at Garrett

Garrett Junior High School was honored for their outstanding STEM education at the state capitol in Carson City. The school was recognized as one of six new schools in CCSD to earn the distinguished Governor’s Designated STEM School distinction, awarded by the state Office of Science, Innovation, and Technology.

Budgeting keeps BC balanced

The Finance Department is in the process of preparing the 2025-26 fiscal year budget. Nevada Revised Statutes require all Nevada cities adopt their final budget on or before June 1. Department directors met with the Finance Department’s budget team last week to review each estimated budget.

What’s Happening Every 15 Minutes?

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