Mrs. Binta Smith, a non-academy art teacher, and Mr. Peterson Formilien, one of our daytime security guards, are married and have been working alongside each other for over three years. It might seem like something difficult to manage, but according to Smith, working together doesn’t bothers her. In fact, she wouldn’t want it any other way.
“It is so much fun,” said Smith. “Mr. Peterson is so helpful when I need help displaying art.”
Even though he works in a different department, Peterson is a frequent visitor to Smith’s class. He comes to help out, have fun, and most importantly, eat lunch.
“I enjoy seeing her teach,” said Peterson. “[My favorite memory] is eating lunch together.”
Working at the same place while also being in a relationship can be challenging. You are together for longer periods of time, as work is normally a place where couples can have space from each other. Nevertheless, both Smith and Peterson have no trouble co-existing in the same working environment.
“I thought it was going to be a little challenging at times, but it hasn’t,” said Smith. Peterson agreed, saying, “It doesn’t affect [our relationship]; it’s just a part of life, with a perk.”
Despite working together for quite some time, many students don’t know that Smith and Peterson are married. Junior Micah Graves, a long time student of Smith’s, had no idea.
“I didn’t know [Mrs. Smith and Mr. Peterson] were married until I took art one with Mrs. Smith,” said Graves. “She told us that he would come to class sometimes because they are married.”
Smith has also had her fair share of funny moments. She recalled one time when, “A student asked, ‘Why does the security guard always stop by to visit? I think he likes you. Doesn’t he know you’re married?’ And the other students said at the same time, ‘That is her husband.’ The student looked so shocked, and everyone started to laugh.”
Peterson and Smith have shown that not only is it possible and manageable for couples to work together, but there is room to thrive and enjoy every minute of working with your spouse.
