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2020 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient

Jeffrey Boogaard

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Ms. Julie Smart nominated her colleague and wrote as follows: “I consider it a professional honor to recommend Mr. Jeffrey Boogaard for the Haddonfield’s Alumni Society’s Lifetime Achievement Award. I have taught with Mr. Boogaard for 31 years and have worked closely with him on a number of collaborative projects to integrate the social studies and English curriculums. His commitment to the art of teaching and learning is exceptional.” 

Mr. Boogaard has taught the gamut of history courses, including freshmen World Civilizations, CP and Accel US History I and Advanced Placement US History II, as well as semester electives such as Law and You, Contemporary Issues, International Relations and Economics. He instituted the HMHS Advanced Placement US Government and Politics course, a class that cultivates an understanding of US government and politics and encourages civic participation. Taking a ‘Boogaard class’ means lively class discussions, investigative projects, and engaging class speakers. One year Mr. Boogaard had NJ Governor Chris Christie speak to his AP Gov class. Another year, his Law and You class examined the HMHS student handbook to investigate school policies and ask questions to our administrators. Whether teaching a semester elective or a College Board Advanced Placement class, Mr. Boogaard brings past and present history and issues to life for his students. 

Mrs. Smart added Jeff's love of learning extends beyond the ten-month school year. He must hold a record for attending NEH Seminars, and many summers he will attend multiple workshops. He has been a reader for Advanced Placement US History II essays and organized student enrichment trips to China, Australia, France, Malta, and Ireland. Perhaps what impresses me most about Mr. Boogaard as a professional is his genuine concern to make our school a better place. He has served on various committees such as Principal’s Advisory Council, High School Leadership Team, Interview Selection Committee, and National Honor Society Selection Committee and currently advises our Model UN Club and Academic Challenge Team. In the past he’s worn the hat of drama club producer, yearbook advisor, Student Council advisor, and even our diving coach. Many political candidates have used the slogan ?He’s Our Man;? HMHS could easily say the same of Jeff. “

Jeff’s work has had a profound impact on students.  Sam Raus ’20 wrote of his former teacher, “Mr. Boogaard is inspiring in both the way he energizes classroom discussion and connects with students outside of their 50 minute daily class period. He is not only a teacher, but a personal mentor and friend. In both APGOV and Model UN, Mr. Boogaard has made me more civically engaged and politically minded. His wide range of knowledge and expertise, particularly in the issues of civil and human rights, helps build a better HMHS and create a truly inclusive community.”