by Lucas Agatep and Christian Bode

“I have everything from hip-hop to reggae to punk to latin and more. I would have to say old school hip-hop and reggae are my go-to genres. Some of my favorite artists are Talib Kweli, Nas, Mos Def and KRS-One.”

The St. John Bosco community and administration wants all of us to welcome new teacher Jen Schnorr to the staff. Mrs. Schnorr graduated from UC Santa Barbara and is going to be working in the World Languages department, teaching Spanish.

Mrs. Schnorr gave us a few minutes out of her day to answer some questions regarding her past so we as a school can better get to know her.

Q: Where have you previously worked? 

A: As far as teaching, I first worked as a teacher as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Mozambique, Africa. When I came home in 2005, I began teaching at my alma mater, St. Anthony’s in Long Beach. Back in college, I worked at Trader Joe’s, also as a volleyball coach and as a barista at a coffee shop. This is my 13th year in the classroom and it would be longer, but I took a few years off in the middle when my sons were babies.

Q: How did you come across St. John Bosco?

A: I went to high school in Long Beach, so I have always had friends that went to Bosco.

Q: What made you consider Bosco?

A: I knew that Bosco was a great school and I was excited for the opportunity to start a new adventure. My nephew was also planning to come here this year, so I thought that would be fun. When I heard that there was a Spanish position open, I submitted an application and the rest is history.

Q: What are your particular hobbies? 

A: Assuming I had time for hobbies, I love to travel, play and watch sports and go to the beach.

Q: Do you have any siblings and kids?

A: I am the oldest of 4. I have 2 sisters and my brother is the youngest. I have 2 sons, Sesimani is 11 and Koa is 8. They just started 5th and 3rd grade.

Q: What is your personal taste in music and who is your favorite artist? 

A: I have everything from hip-hop to reggae to punk to latin and more. I would have to say old school hip-hop and reggae are my go-to genres. Some of my favorite artists are Talib Kweli, Nas, Mos Def and KRS-One.

Q: What sport do you like and what is your favorite team if you have any?

A: In college I played volleyball. Nowadays, I watch football and I am a huge [Pittsburgh] Steelers fan.

Q: Currently what do you think of Bosco and your students? 

A: Although I’ve only been here for a week or so, I feel totally welcome and supported. I love my classes and students and have had a great start to the school year. I’m really happy here.

Q: Compared to your prior school, what is different and similar to Bosco?

A: Well, the obvious difference would be the all-boys aspect, my last school was co-ed. But it honestly has not been a big difference! Bosco is also a little bigger than my previous school, so that is fun.

Q: Did you participate in any sports or clubs in High School?

A: Yes! I did everything in high school. I played 4 varsity sports (volleyball, soccer, basketball and softball) and I also played on the boys baseball team my senior year. I was a part of ASB every year and was in many clubs including NHS, CSF, Key Club and more.

Braves, go welcome Mrs. Schnorr to the Bosco community and make sure to say hello, as she is located in room 203!