Amber Bauman is a dedicated educator and trainer at Valley View Acres, where she combines her passions for teaching and horseback riding. As a sixth-grade math teacher and track coach at Hannah Beardsley Middle School, Bauman employs the KISS method—keeping lessons simple and engaging. She creatively integrates pop culture and real-life scenarios into her math instruction, ensuring that all students, regardless of their learning styles, can grasp complex concepts. A notable project involved building model houses, which allowed students to apply math skills in a hands-on way, fostering empowerment and collaboration among them.

Bauman’s teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of confidence and empathy, both in the classroom and during riding lessons. She believes that learning is often messy but rewarding, and she encourages students to embrace their unique strengths. Her approach has proven effective, as students who typically struggle in traditional settings have excelled in practical applications, while those who excel in conventional math have sought help from their peers. This dynamic fosters a supportive learning environment where students can thrive.

Outside of her teaching roles, Bauman has a rich history with horses, having started riding at a young age and establishing her farm in 1992. Despite facing challenges, such as a devastating barn fire in 2014, she has rebuilt her community and continues to inspire young riders. Bauman’s ultimate goal is to instill compassion and empathy in her students, hoping they leave her classes as better individuals ready to contribute positively to the world.