St. Paul School and Preschool is proud to announce kindergarten teacher Mrs. Bethany Bogle has been selected as the school’s inaugural Teacher of the Year for 2025.
The new annual award, established by St. Paul’s Mission and Ministry Board, recognizes an educator who demonstrates high standards of professionalism, expertise in education, true team spirit, and models Christ-like values in their daily work.
“Our board and executive team created this award to honor the exceptional educators who make St. Paul School and Preschool stand out,” said Principal Ruth Sebastian. “Mrs. Bogle exemplifies everything we value in Christian education.”
Mrs. Bogle has dedicated her professional career to Christian teaching, making a lasting impact on hundreds of students during their most formative academic and socio-emotional development years. She joined St. Paul as a new Concordia University graduate with a Lutheran teaching certificate and has been shaping young minds in kindergarten since 2015.
“It feels funny to be recognized for something that brings me so much joy,” Mrs. Bogle said. “I’m grateful God has blessed me with the skills and ability to teach His children, and that St. Paul gives me the opportunity to share my love of Jesus with kindergartners every day.”
Beyond her classroom excellence, Mrs. Bogle has stepped into leadership roles throughout her tenure at St. Paul, including serving a full term as interim principal from 2023 to 2024. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she has volunteered for several ministry projects and she attends almost every on-campus and off-campus school events.
Mrs. Bogle’s approach to kindergarten education focuses on building strong foundations through developmentally appropriate instruction.
“Five-year-olds are at such a wonderful stage,” she said. “They’re curious about everything, and that makes every experience an opportunity for learning and discovery. Whether it’s faith, reading, math, science or social studies, kindergarten is when children are most open to the possibilities that surround them.”
Her dedication to both academic achievement and spiritual growth aligns perfectly with St. Paul’s mission of nurturing believers, equipping scholars, and connecting families.
“Mrs. Bogle represents the heart of what makes St. Paul special,” Principal Sebastian added. “She combines rigorous academic instruction with genuine care for each child’s spiritual development. Her impact extends far beyond the classroom walls.”
The Teacher of the Year award will become an annual tradition at St. Paul School and Preschool, recognizing outstanding educators who embody the school’s commitment to Christian education and academic excellence.
St. Paul School and Preschool has been serving Merced County families since 1991. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and National Lutheran School Accreditation (NLSA), and affiliated with the Lutheran Church — Missouri Synod.
