Staffulty Highlight: Sean Etigson
Sean joined Bosque in 2014 and teaches 7th-grade English; he is also one of the 7th-grade deans. A graduate of Swarthmore College, where he studied English, Spanish, and education, Sean strives to create innovative and engaging educational experiences. Over the past 27 years, Sean has led classrooms, camps, and enrichment programs across the country. Sean brings his passion for literature, language, history, culture, and the integrated arts to his teaching.
From the time he was a young boy, he has been involved in camps, such as Hummingbird Music Camp; his wonderful camping experiences led him to start his own overnight camp, Full Circle, in 2003. In his secret identity, Sean is a performing songwriter and storyteller who delights in working with audiences of all ages. In 2004, Sean was honored with the Elena Maes Memorial Award for his outstanding work with the children of New Mexico.
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From the time he was a young boy, he has been involved in camps, such as Hummingbird Music Camp; his wonderful camping experiences led him to start his own overnight camp, Full Circle, in 2003. In his secret identity, Sean is a performing songwriter and storyteller who delights in working with audiences of all ages. In 2004, Sean was honored with the Elena Maes Memorial Award for his outstanding work with the children of New Mexico.
What is your favorite weekend activity?
"I have to get up into the mountains every few weeks. Whether it’s a hike or a trail run, I need the restorative power of rivers, rocks, and trees. That said, I also like the restorative power of a good movie or show."
If you could have dinner with anyone from history, who would it be and why?
"I guess I’d like to have dinner with the whole Globe Theater ensemble in 1600 or so and see how they actually worked out all those amazing plays. But I would have to be allowed to bring my own dinner and beverages."
What do you love about being a member of the Bosque School community?
"I appreciate getting to work with so many amazing and talented people. It’s also inspiring to be around so many adults who still have a growth mindset and who strive to make the world better through teaching and direct action."
Do you have any pets?
"We have a dog and two cats, and they basically run the household. One of our cats thinks she is actually a dog. They are all a steady source of amusement (and occasional vexation)."
What inspires you in life?
"I am constantly inspired by stories and songs; they are the heart and soul of humanity. And being in the majesty of nature helps me to be open to the songs and stories that have been told and sung — and all the ones that have yet to be created. I get inspired when I arrive in the MIDDLE of writing a song — that’s when the creative process really takes hold. I’m also constantly inspired by the musicians I have worked with over the past thirty years, and making albums together has truly been one of the highlights of my life."
Could you tell us about a teacher you had who meant a lot to you?
"My high school history teacher Greg Papp really transformed my life. He taught me how to see from different perspectives and how to push myself toward excellence. He also showed me that it’s ok to be an athlete AND a scholar, and we are still friends to this day."
What would you tell a family who is considering Bosque School?
"I would tell them what I have been saying for years: this is a community where we care about the whole person and where we will challenge your child to think and grow and become the best version of themselves."
Do you have a funny or moving anecdote about Bosque School that you'd like to share?
"My son had an opportunity to do an exchange semester at Bosque last spring, and after a few weeks, he said, 'This is a good place. The teachers and students both care about learning.' Seeing the school through his eyes was a once in a lifetime experience for me. Watching him sing with the choir, throw himself into his basketball practices and games, or wrestle with challenging projects, I realized what I have always known: this is a place where people are supported to grow and to find themselves."
Is there anything you'd like to share about yourself?
"I guess I would want people to know that my father was a camp director, and I really love summer camps. That’s why I started Full Circle more than 20 years ago, and why I was hired to design Bosque Summer. Camps provide an atmosphere for transformation that I have seen help so many people over the years."
GRADES 6-12
(505) 898-6388
4000 Bosque School Road NW
Albuquerque, NM 87120
(505) 898-6388
4000 Bosque School Road NW
Albuquerque, NM 87120
