“[She] is one of the most influential teachers out there, and you would be hard-pressed to find anyone just as qualified, knowledgeable, and encouraging as her,” said sophomore Olivia Lundy ‘28. Lundy was speaking about Boulder High’s choir director, Kelly Carmichael.
Since beginning her career at Boulder High five years ago, Carmichael has taught three award winning choirs, musically directed four musicals for BHS Troupe 60, and positively impacted the lives of countless students. Throughout her career at BHS, she has expanded the choir program from fewer than fifty to now over a hundred singers.
Carmichael can be consistently found going above and beyond for her students, from Panther Pride to leading school trips and even taking on a new special education music class; she always gives her all to the entirety of Boulder High’s community. Mrs. Carmichael’s obvious passion for all things Boulder High is unparalleled and is likely one of the reasons she has such a strong connection with so many students. Carmichael says that she strives to see all of her students holistically for who they are as people. She creates bonding opportunities within and throughout her choirs, visiting and cheering at sports games with her students, and so much more in order to make each and every student feel seen.
When asked about what BHS choirs mean to her, teacher Kelly Carmichael responded, “It’s more than just a job, it’s a community and a second home.” It is clear that Carmichael’s passion for her work is unwavering, which is likely what has led her choirs to great successes, such as singing at Carnegie Hall in 2024 and being invited to perform at the prestigious Colorado Music Educators conference this upcoming spring.
Students have expressed their gratitude for these opportunities.“ I feel so grateful,” says Payton Allman ‘26, “to have gotten to sing at one of the most iconic stages in the world.”
Carmichael’s work expands further than just accomplishments in the classroom; she leaves a personal impact on many of the students who are lucky enough to experience her teaching. The important messages and life lessons she instills in her students have changed so many lives. Olivia Lundy‘28 said, “I have learned so much from Carmie over the years, but one of the most important lessons that I will continue to take with me throughout my life is that dedication gets you places. In her words, ‘Practice can’t make perfect, because perfect doesn’t exist. Practice makes progress, and progress makes it worth doing.’”
It is hard to find an educator who truly goes above and beyond as she does and with as much heart. She makes students feel seen and heard, and for many high school students, that is all they need to feel motivated and reach their full potential. Carmichael describes her teaching philosophy simply saying, “ I listen to them, and I try to know who they are as people, not just students, and that’s important to me.” She later went on to say, “High school students want to ultimately feel seen, and I try to do that”.
From the various days to which she has added an hour of joy to the countless students’ lives whom she has inspired, Mrs. Carmichael’s impact at Boulder High is immeasurable. From classroom to community, Boulder High is immensely lucky to have her.