Job hunts can be tough after graduation, but Lauren Blumhorst doesn’t have to worry as she finishes student teaching and prepares to begin her professional career at Marion High School.

Blumhorst, a senior from Forsyth studying mathematics, had to sit out her senior season at SIU because of several concussions. Blumhorst’s career featured three Missouri Valley Conference Scholar-Athlete awards and an MVC Good Neighbor Award in 2011.

Mike Chornak, athletic director at Marion High School, said an impressive career at SIU both in the classroom and on the volleyball court made her a prime candidate for the school’s open position for math teacher and volleyball coach.

Advertisement

“She applied in March, and we immediately recognized her strong background in both education and coaching,” Chornak said.  “Lauren’s scholastic honors at SIU on the volleyball team, as well as her experience as coach of the Southern Illinois Select Volleyball Club, made (her) a prime candidate for the position when it opened up.”

Former volleyball coach Brenda Winkeler said Blumhorst played a pivotal role in her team from her freshman year on. Winkeler said while sitting out her senior season, she saw Blumhorst display her coaching skills while working on volleyball skills with underclassmen.

“Lauren was born to be a coach,” Winkeler said.  “Her enthusiasm and teaching ability really began to show her senior year.  She’s good at taking on new responsibilities. I’m sure she will do a great job at Marion.”

As she finishes student teaching at Murphysboro High School and prepares to graduate, Blumhorst said she would be certified to teach algebra and calculus during the fall semester.

“I love what I teach, and I love what I coach,” Blumhorst said.  “At this point, I’m just glad I chose to go into something I have such a passion for.  This is a somewhat new experience I’m really looking forward to. I’ve had plenty of good coaches and teachers in my life to model myself after.”