Getting to know the new staff at Chase County Schools
By Sophia Cortez-Holmes Longshore
The Holyoke Enterprise
In recognition of the new staff at Chase County Schools Junior/Senior High, the Imperial Republican invited the new staff members to answer a few questions to help the community get to know them.
Coach Kenzie Wonderly
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I am a Colorado native and have lived in Nebraska since attending and graduating with my teaching degree from Chadron State with my husband. I am currently the K-6 Title teacher here at Chase County. Prior to moving here I was the K-12 PE/Health teacher at Dundy County Stratton where I coached all JH girl sports and HS track.
What inspired you to get into coaching?
I have always had a huge passion for coaching and athletics but my biggest inspiration was the coaches I had throughout my athletic career. Those who no matter what always say your best even when they see your flaws is something I really carry with me even years later and I want to pass that along.
What is your favorite thing about coaching?
My favorite sports to coach are volleyball and track. My favorite thing about coaching is the relationships you make along the way. One other thing that I really enjoy is watching athletes finally reach and the version of themselves you as a coach see. You can tell them how much you believe in them over and over but watching them finally see what you see is the most rewarding part of what I do. That success and growth in players is so rewarding.
What is your favorite way to spend the weekend?
I love being able to spend the weekends with my family. Being busy and my husband being busy during the week we value that family time with our daughter whether it is walking, a weekend out of town, going golfing, or just spending time at home doing the small things. That part of life really keeps everything else going.
Diane Bohochik - 5th Grade English Language Arts
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
My name is Elizabeth Bohochik, but I go by Diane, which is my middle name. My husband, daughter, in-laws, and I live in Hitchcock County. I have been in education for over twelve years, teaching in second grade through sixth grade, primarily.
What inspired you to get into teaching?
I got into teaching because I have always enjoyed working with students. Kids are great about making you laugh and teaching you more about yourself and life.
What is your favorite thing about teaching?
My favorite thing about teaching is that the job is different every day. The students always make it interesting and fun.
What is your favorite way to spend a weekend?
The best weekends in my opinion are spent with my family, either traveling, working on a yard or house project, or just exploring outside.
Katelan Rogers - Speech Language Pathologist
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
My name is Katelan, and I’m originally from Morrill, Nebraska, where I grew up on a farm and ranch. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences from the University of Wyoming, where I also had the opportunity to collaborate on research related to cleft palate—a project I’ve continued throughout graduate school. I’m currently completing my master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and will graduate in August. During my time at UNL, I’ve worked with individuals across a wide age range, but I’ve especially enjoyed working with elementary-aged students. I’m excited to be part of Chase County Schools and look forward to getting to know the students and connecting with their families.
What inspired you to get into teaching?
I’ve always been drawn to school settings and have had a passion for working with kids for as long as I can remember. Whether it was volunteering with youth programs at church or spending summers in childcare and educational roles, I naturally gravitated toward opportunities to support and connect with children. What really inspired me to pursue speech-language pathology, though, was seeing the impact SLPs can have on a child’s life. I’ve witnessed how meaningful communication support can boost a student’s confidence and success—and I want to be a part of making that kind of difference.
What is your favorite thing about teaching?
My favorite thing about being an SLP is seeing a student’s face light up when they achieve something they didn’t think was possible. Whether it’s reaching a big goal or mastering a small but important skill, it’s incredibly rewarding to help students find success in both the big and small things. Communication is vital not only to their academic success but also to their ability to navigate life, build relationships, and grow in confidence. Being able to support them in that journey is what makes this work so fulfilling.
What is your favorite way to spend a weekend?
My favorite way to spend a weekend is by getting outdoors—whether it’s hiking, skiing, running, or paddleboarding, I love being active and enjoying nature. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family, whether that’s hanging out or helping out on the farm. I always try to make time for doing some art, like drawing or wood burning.
Colby Hamilton - Physical Education
Tell us a little about yourself!
My name is Colby Hamilton, and I’m thrilled to be joining Chase County Schools as the new elementary P.E. teacher. This is my first year teaching, and I’m looking forward to becoming a part of both the school and the community.
I grew up in Battle Creek, Nebraska, a small town of about 1,200 people. I graduated from Battle Creek High School in 2020—right when the world seemed to pause. That fall, I began attending Wayne State College, where I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in K-12 Physical Education and a minor in coaching this past December.
I consider myself a high-energy person who enjoys getting out and getting to know new people. If you see me around town or at school, don’t hesitate to say hello—I’m always happy to chat. I’m excited for the year ahead and grateful for the opportunity to work with the students and families of Chase County.
What inspired you to get into teaching?
While I originally planned to pursue a career in the medical and health field, my path took a different turn during my final years of high school. I spent much of that time working at a local pharmacy and a nursing home, eventually earning my Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license as a senior. Helping others has always been important to me, but after visiting a few colleges and experiencing the uncertainty of the COVID-19 shutdown in March 2020, I began to reconsider my direction.
Education has always been close to home—my mom, Stephanie, and my aunt, Lori, are both dedicated lifelong educators. Their passion and commitment to teaching inspired me to explore the field more seriously. During my freshman year at Wayne State College, I enrolled in a few education courses and quickly discovered a love for physical education. From that point on, everything began to fall into place.
What is your favorite thing about teaching?
Although I’m just beginning my teaching career and still have much to learn, one thing I’ve already come to value deeply is the opportunity to connect with students, families, and fellow staff members. Building strong, lasting relationships not only supports student learning and growth but also helps create a positive, encouraging school environment. I’m excited to continue growing as an educator and look forward to the journey ahead with a full career still in front of me.
What is your favorite way to spend a weekend?
On the weekends, I enjoy kicking back and spending quality time with friends and family. I’m happiest when I’m outdoors—whether that’s playing a game of catch, going for a walk, or just enjoying the weather. I also love to grill and rarely pass up the chance to cook a good meal and share it with others.
I’m a big sports fan and enjoy watching just about any game, but I especially look forward to Husker football and volleyball in the fall. I’m also a proud Green Bay Packers fan and rarely miss a Sunday game. For me, weekends are all about good company, being outside, enjoying great food, and catching a game or two.