In a twist of fate, there is a group of educators at MV that are shaping young minds in the halls they once roamed.
One of these teachers who have come full circle, returning to her alma mater to inspire a new generation of learners, is MV’s own, Mrs. Raquel Bliffen, ‘05.
Mrs. Bliffen graduated from MV in 2005, at the old campus, and was involved in many facets throughout her stay at MV.
“I was 1st chair trumpet in band and orchestra; I acted in Theater; I was an Independent Study art student in painting and drawing, and actually designed a mural for the school my senior year. I was also on JAVA staff; performed at assemblies; and Emceed dances; I was everywhere all the time. If there was a poetry competition or novel-writing experience? I was there,” stated Mrs. Bliffen.
In the nearly twenty years since Mrs. Bliffen’s graduation, a lot has changed at MV.
“Most obviously is the campus, because clearly we are in a different location. However, I’d say it’s really about student involvement and mindset. The internet and COVID both really changed the school dynamic, and you can see how kids are different comparatively,” said Mrs. Bliffen.
“Also, the response to mental health is 100% different than it used to be. Students have people they can go to for crises that we didn’t really have when I was in school,” added Mrs. Bliffen.
Mrs. Bliffen attributed her career as a teacher at MV to a person she met during her time at MV as a student.
“Ron Deforrest was my English teacher sophomore year, and he was the first person whose class made me think, ‘I can do this.’ I loved his style and how every day a story became a lesson and became knowledge. He was so dynamic and fun, and it made me want to be the same in a classroom of my own,” shared Mrs. Bliffen.
“I can’t believe I’m teaching the same class at the same school as the teacher who inspired me! I saw him last year and spoke with him about how he was a major reason I became a teacher; he was mollified, to be sure!” continued Mrs. Bliffen.
When Mrs. Bliffen started the process of becoming a certified teacher, she only had one school in mind for where she wanted to teach.
“Mt. Vernon was my dream job. It took a LONG road of work and substitute teaching to be considered. I worked so hard to build up a varied set of skills that would appeal to the District and set me apart from other teacher applicants,” stated Mrs. Bliffen.
Mrs. Bliffen teaches Sophomore English, Sophomore Honors English, and Performance Studies teacher continuing to reflect her inspiration: Ron Deforrest.
She also coaches the Speech and Acting team and serves as Drama Club advisor and director.
“I was involved in so many things and was always doing and going. I loved being active. Theater, music, art – all of these areas increased my ability to be the goofball I am today,” commented Mrs. Bliffen.
Throughout her time so far as an MV educator, she has experienced and met unforgettable moments and people.
“I love working with students every day and imparting knowledge. It’s great to see the expansion of their skills from the beginning to the end of the school year!” said Mrs. Bliffen.
“I was honored in 2019 with the Principal’s Award through the state. I was nominated by Mr. Fatheree and sent to Bloomington to hear from the governor! It was a huge honor and I still have my award!” Mrs. Bliffen added.
