Boise Valley Adventist School in Boise, Idaho, marked the end of an era with the retirement of Verna Reinbold, a beloved first and second grade teacher. Reinbold retired in May 2021 after 37 years of devoted service in the teaching profession — four at Glenview Adventist School in Arizona and 33 at Boise Valley.
Reinbold has been an esteemed member of the BVAS staff. Her willingness to put in extra time and effort to help encourage a staff member, mentor a teacher or help her students succeed has demonstrated a commitment to excellence parents and staff have come to appreciate.
During her career, Reinbold started two preschool and kindergarten programs. She incorporated into her curriculum many fun activities such as roller-skating, cross-country skiing, and hatching chickens and ducks. What she loved most about teaching was “the support and appreciation of parents, working with children on their learning journey, sensing God by my side, and the times when kids taught me.”
In 2011, Reinbold received the Don Keele Award for excellence in teaching for her focus on the Amish culture. During her trip, she visited Amish country, stayed in two Amish homes, took tours, went to an Amish schoolhouse, took buggy rides and visited as much of the area as she could.
“I was inspired by their focus on the simpler things in life such as family and God with fewer distractions," she recalls. "They have an incredible work ethic and culture. I was able to share what I learned with teachers and students.” Images and a blog of her experience can be viewed at amishtrip.wordpress.com.
Students of all ages say Reinbold is kind and has a ready smile. Her students recalled playing Huckle Buckle Snowman, learning sign language, playing Raz Kids, celebrating birthdays, playing in the "pit," reading in the tub, completing the reading challenge, earning trophies, doing plays and participating in creative activities.
Reinbold is revered for her willingness to listen and relate to the kids. Many benefited from her innovative teaching style and nurturing spirit.
Staff recall Reinbold's patience with the children, her impact on education, her ability to build confidence in others, her adaptability with new curriculums and unique situations, her friendship, and her spiritual guidance. She has also inspired hundreds of students to develop a love for reading, writing and learning.
Reinbold's retirement is a well-deserved respite. Reflecting on her teaching career, she said, “I have been blessed beyond measure by working at BVAS with awesome staff, students and parents." Reinbold has left big shoes to fill. She will be greatly missed by students and colleagues alike.
Verna Reinbold helps one of her students.
Verna Reinbold serves green eggs during one of her reading activities.
Verna Reinbold's class performs a reader's theater for the kindergarteners.
Verna Reinbold leads a game during the school picnic.
Verna Reinbold
Verna Reinbold stands next to the bulletin board set up for her retirement celebration at the school.
