*Engineering*
By: BHS Staff Profiles
September 23, 2022
The Staff Spotlight for this week is Mrs. Bonnie Romano. As a new addition to the Brooklyn High School staff, Mrs. Romano is already known for her welcoming and inspiring personality. She brings these traits into the engineering classroom. Outside of school, Mrs. Romano enjoys many activities including traveling, hiking, paddle boarding, yoga, and photography. We are blessed to have her here at BHS.
Q: Where did you go to college, and why did you choose that school?
A: “I went to Purdue for an engineering program. In the beginning, it came down to either Purdue or Penn State. I loved both schools and couldn’t decide. Purdue sent a flier in the mail that gave a sign that I should go there. I flipped a ‘coin’ and decided that Purdue was my school.”
Q: What are your thoughts about Brooklyn High School so far?
A: “I love it! The staff has been amazing! It’s hard being the new person, but they’ve been very welcoming. The kids are amazing. I feel fortunate that I get to see all grade levels in high school. I have kids who are very clear about what they want to do and some not so much. I love the diversity and lots of different cultures and backgrounds. I also love that Brooklyn isn’t a huge school; I feel like I have a better opportunity to get to know my students.”
Q: What inspired you to become an engineering teacher?
A: “I did some work in the school where my kids go in Brunswick. I started a coding club. At the time, I wasn’t working, and I was a stay-at-home mom. I loved working with the kids and seeing them get excited about what they were doing and learning in the club. They hired me to do it in all seven schools and also started a middle school robotics league. I loved watching them grow and challenging them to step out of their comfort zones. So when I got the opportunity to apply here, I jumped right in.”
Q: If you could pick another subject to teach, what would it be?
A: “Probably photography or something artsy! I’ve always gravitated towards those areas as well.”
Q: What makes engineering special?
A: “I think that everyone has different gifts and talents, and we aren’t always aware of what those are. Students have the opportunity to discover what those are. They can problem solve, be a leader, and have other positive positions.”
Q: Do you see yourself as an introvert or an extrovert?
A: “Interesting! Most people who know me would describe me as an extrovert. I have a bubbly personality, and some people would describe me as loud and outgoing, but I do like my quiet time as an introvert. I’m more of a retreater when it comes to being around people. So possibly, an introverted-extrovert!”
Q: What are some life goals you want to achieve?
A: “Friends of mine started a school in Costa Rica for children from Nicaragua. I would love to go down there and help them with the school. Other than that, I want to always make sure I’m a good mom and a good wife and make sure I’m a good teacher and support the kids I now have in school.”
Q: Do you prefer working on your own or with a team?
A: “Definitely with a team. I like to have moments on my own where I can think and reflect, but I feel like you can learn so much from other people. So when in isolation, it’s hard to learn and explore. If I were alone, I would really be struggling. It’s always good to be a part of others’ plans and ideas.”
Q: What is your favorite sports team(s)?
A: “Right now at Penn State, my nephew is the quarterback; he got recruited last year and has been having a lot of playing time. My other favorite sports team would probably be the Browns, even though they are miserable to watch sometimes. I’m definitely a football fan.”
Q: What is your go-to meal?
A: “Probably Mexican. I love spicy food, but honestly, I’m more of a dessert person. I really like chocolate raspberry cheesecake. I could not NOT eat it if it was in front of me!”
Thank you so much, Mrs. Romano. It was truly a pleasure meeting you and getting to know you. We hope your teaching experience at Brooklyn High School is enjoyable and worthwhile!
THE RETURN OF THE EYE 