Hengameh Moshirr, mathematics teacher, has witnessed a culture unlike one experienced in America
as she lived in Iran for part of her life.

Growing up, Moshirr was constantly surrounded by her family.

“I have a sister that is eight years older than me, but we had a lot of fun together. My father was the superintendent of a province in the north of Iran, and my mother taught in elementary school and the localteacher-prep college. My grandmother lived in Tehran and was a principal of a very large elementary school with over 1000 students,” said Moshirr.

At the age of three, her father was promoted, and along came her shift to Tehran, Iran’s largest city.

In Tehran, Moshirr lived alongside people various cultures, including neighbors from the United States, Japan, and Germany.

“I had cousins from Germany there, but I always preferred spending time with my American friends,” said Moshirr.

Because her father had a high-ranking government position, Moshirr and her family were granted special privileges.
Moshirr recalled, “I always remember our house in Rezayieh, the capital city of the province that we lived in. It was an amazing house with gardens and a guest house separate from the main building reserved for the help! The house was provided for us by the local government. All the high ranking officials had access to these amenities.”

Moshirr would not be living this life of luxury for much longer. Soon after the passing of her mother, Moshirr’s father sent her to Pocatello, Idaho, at the age of fifteen to live with a friend. This was around the time of a revolution in Iran, and consequently, her friends scattered around the world.

“I think I could say I have at least one childhood friend in every West European country. I am glad that I am exposed to so many wonderful people and am able to extend my circle of friends to a global level,”
said Moshirr.

After moving to America, Moshirr immediately went to university as she had graduated early in Iran. Moshirr studied physical science and mathematics in Iran and majored in mathematics at Idaho State University.

For Moshirr, becoming a teacher was an easy and natural decision for her as her mother and grandmother worked in education.

“I have always been teaching. I taught my friends growing up and then taught in college. I began teaching public high school in 1985,” said Moshirr.

Moshirr utilizes her unique background to create an effective learning environment for her students.

“She always tells us a lot of interesting stories about her own life, and truly connects with her students and cares for them,” said Kristen Park, sophomore.

Romeet Sen, senior, said of Moshirr’s teaching, “She is genuinely interested in making sure we learn
calculus and pass the AP test.”

Although Moshirr has made a remarkable life here, she still misses her childhood days in Iran.

Moshirr said, “Iran was and is a beautiful and ancient country. I miss the beautiful large brick houses and ancient structures at any corner. I do miss the glorious snow every winter. I will always cherish the fun memories I have from those times.”