Mixter Institute Educator Runs NYC Marathon to Inspire Students
Lincoln park Teacher Runs NYC Marathon to Inspire Students with Autism
LINCOLN PARK, MICH – Zahraa Boussi, an autism spectrum disorder coach at Lincoln Park’s Mixter Institute, crossed the finish line of the new York City Marathon on November 3rd, but her journey was about more than just completing the grueling 26.2 miles. Boussi ran to show her students that anything is possible with commitment and perseverance.
Boussi was one of only 50 educators nationwide selected from a pool of 4,000 applicants to participate in the marathon through a program that offers public school teachers the chance to run in some of the world’s most iconic races. She finished with a time of 5:01:41, placing 40,750th out of approximately 55,530 runners.
“My hope is to inspire my students to believe that with determination and heart they can achieve anything they set their minds to,” Boussi said. “I believe my role as a social worker is to help individuals strive for progress, wich may require manny steps. Each step, no matter how small, brings us closer to our goals. Just as I encourage my students to believe in themselves and their potential, I channel that same belief into every mile I run, proving that with hard work and dedication, we can achieve the unusual.”
Boussi’s journey to the marathon began as a way to get in shape, but it took on a deeper meaning in 2020 and 2021. During that period, she lost her father to COVID-19, gave birth to her son, and was diagnosed with breast cancer. Running became her outlet, a way to process grief and find strength.She ran her first marathon in 2023, six months into remission.
“During that difficult time, running became more than just exercise,” Boussi shared. “Many of my students face challenges with verbal communication and emotional regulation, yet they persevere with remarkable determination to achieve their goals. Their resilience gives me strength to overcome my own challenges, just as they do with theirs.”
Boussi credits Mixter Institute Principal Robyn Castle for being a driving force in her marathon journey. Castle’s encouragement and support kept boussi motivated and focused on her goal.
“Zahraa has been a true inspiration to our entire Mixter family, including our students, staff and families,” Castle said. “Her drive to succeed and achieve her personal goals serves as a model for our students to thrive in our classrooms and prepare for the next phases of their lives.”
lincoln Park Public Schools Superintendent Terry Dangerfield echoed Castle’s sentiments. “Our entire Railsplitter community is so proud of Zahraa for this amazing achievement,” Dangerfield said. “She literally demonstrates how our Railsplitter teachers, support staff and employees go the extra mile to help our students succeed.”
boussi’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of believing in oneself. Her dedication to her students and her own personal growth serves as an inspiration to all.
Inspiring Educator Runs NYC Marathon to Empower Students with Autism
Driven by a desire to inspire her students, Zahraa Boussi, an autism spectrum disorder coach at Lincoln Park’s Mixter Institute, completed the New York City Marathon on November 3rd. Boussi was one of only 50 educators nationwide selected from a pool of 4,000 applicants to participate in the iconic race.
For Boussi, the marathon was about more than just the physical challenge. She shared, “My hope is to inspire my students to believe that with determination and heart they can achieve anything they set their minds to. I believe my role as a social worker is to help individuals strive for progress,which may require many steps.”
Boussi’s journey to the marathon began as a way to get in shape, but took on a deeper significance in 2020 and 2021 when she experienced the loss of her father to COVID-19, the birth of her son, and a breast cancer diagnosis.Running became her outlet, a way to process grief and find strength. She ran her first marathon in 2023, six months into remission.
Boussi draws inspiration from the resilience of her students. “Many of my students face challenges with verbal dialog and emotional regulation, yet they persevere with remarkable determination to achieve their goals. Their resilience gives me strength to overcome my own challenges, just as they do with theirs,” she explained.
Mixter Institute Principal Robyn castle commended Boussi, stating, “Zahraa has been a true inspiration to our entire Mixter family.Her drive to succeed and achieve her personal goals serves as a model for our students to thrive in our classrooms and prepare for the next phases of their lives.”
Lincoln Park public Schools Superintendent Terry Dangerfield echoed the sentiment, emphasizing how Boussi exemplifies the dedication of the district’s educators.