This month's Alumni Spotlight features Jule (Mansheim) Bullington, a 1985 graduate of Brookings High School who dedicated 35 years to teaching first grade at Medary Elementary before retiring after the 2023–24 school year.
After graduating from BHS, Jule attended the University of South Dakota, where she earned her degree in Elementary Education. She returned to Brookings to student teach at Central Elementary and Medary Elementary before beginning her teaching career at Medary.
Although retired, Jule continues to serve students in the Brookings School District as a substitute teacher at Mickelson Middle School, where she works in the Social Skills Room, known as the Hideout. She especially enjoys working directly with students and appreciates the opportunity to remain connected to the District.
Looking back on her time at BHS, Jule recalls cross country cookie runs, intramural water polo, Homecoming traditions, and watching the Bobcat football team win the 1983 State Championship. Above all, she remembers the school spirit and sense of belonging that made her high school years so special.
During her time at BHS, Jule was a member of three South Dakota State Championship cross country teams, earned the White Letter Award, and successfully completed Algebra II. She credits hard work, dedication, and the support of her school community for those accomplishments.
Her advice for today's Bobcats is a reminder of the importance of preparation and school pride:
"Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance."
Jule encourages students to make the most of every opportunity at BHS, support their classmates, and take pride in being a Bobcat.
Thank you, Jule, for your 35 years of dedication to the Brookings School District and for continuing to make a difference in the lives of our students!
