Educator Runs NYC Marathon, Inspiring Students with Autism
Zahraa Boussi, an autism spectrum disorder coach at Lincoln Park’s Mixter Institute, recently tackled the New York City Marathon, proving to her students that dedication and perseverance can lead to incredible achievements. Boussi, one of only 50 educators nationwide chosen from 4,000 applicants for this opportunity, crossed the finish line with a time of 5:01:41, placing 40,750th out of roughly 55,530 runners.
But for Boussi, the race wasn’t just about personal accomplishment.
“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, which may require many 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 extraordinary."
Boussi’s journey to the marathon was deeply personal. She intensified her running regimen in 2020 and 2021, a period marked by profound loss and challenge. During this time, she lost her father to COVID-19, welcomed her son into the world, and was diagnosed with breast cancer. Remarkably, she ran her first marathon just six months after entering remission.
"During that difficult time, running became more than just exercise," Boussi said. "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 her unwavering support during her training.
Castle, like the rest of the school community, is incredibly proud of Boussi’s accomplishment.
"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.”
Even Terry Dangerfield, Lincoln Park Public Schools superintendent, weighed in on Boussi’s accomplishment:
"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 powerful reminder that anything is possible with determination and hard work, a message that resonated deeply with her students facing their own unique challenges
##Running For Tomorrow: An exclusive Interview with Zahraa Boussi
**Zahraa Boussi, an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) teacher in New York City, defied limitations and inspired countless students by completing the grueling new York City Marathon. Her story of resilience and dedication is not only a personal triumph, but a testament to the potential that lies within every individual, irrespective of perceived limitations. World Today News sat down with Ms. Boussi to delve deeper into her astounding journey and understand the profound impact it has had on her students.**
**WTN:** Ms. Boussi, congratulations on completing the NYC Marathon! This is an incredible achievement for anyone, but it holds even more significance given your role as an educator working with students on the autism spectrum. What inspired you to take on this challenge?
**ZB:** Thank you! Running has always been a source of joy and stress relief for me. But this time, I wanted to do something truly remarkable—something that would not only challenge myself physically but also inspire my students to dream big. My students face unique challenges every day, and I wanted to demonstrate that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.
**WTN:** how did your students react to your decision? Did they play a role in your training?
**ZB:** They were absolutely thrilled! Their excitement and support were invaluable. They would frequently enough ask about my progress and cheer me on during my training runs. Some students even made me personalized motivational cards that I carried with me on race day. Their enthusiasm fueled my every step.
**WTN:** The marathon is notoriously tough. What were some of the biggest obstacles you faced, and how did you overcome them?
**ZB:** Without a doubt, the biggest challenge was training while balancing my teaching responsibilities. It required excellent time management and a lot of early mornings! There were days when I felt physically and mentally drained,but remembering the impact this coudl have on my students kept me going.
**WTN:** beyond the physical endurance,what were some of the mental and emotional hurdles you had to overcome?
**ZB:** There were moments during the race where self-doubt crept in. The sheer magnitude of the event can be overwhelming. But I focused on breaking the distance into smaller, achievable goals, and I constantly reminded myself of the reason I was running – to inspire my students and show them that anything is achievable with determination.
**WTN:** Your journey serves as an incredible inspiration not just for your students, but for individuals of all abilities. What message would you like to share with those who might be facing their own challenges?
**ZB:** Never underestimate the power of believing in yourself. Everyone has unique strengths and talents. It’s about finding what sets your soul on fire and pursuing it with passion. Challenges will inevitably arise, but don’t let them define you. With perseverance, support, and a belief in your own potential, you can overcome any obstacle and achieve your goals.
**WTN:** Thank you so much for sharing your inspiring story,Ms Boussi.Your journey is a beacon of hope and a powerful reminder that limitations are frequently enough self-imposed.
