For many teachers, education begins with a passion for helping students learn, but for Mr. Brubaker, it started with substitute teaching. Now a carer and technical education teacher at Urbana High School, he said his experience in the classroom quickly showed him that teaching was something he truly enjoyed. “What started as substitute teaching eventually turned into a career,” Mr. Brubaker explained. “After long-term subbing for Mr. Hontz, I realized I really enjoyed being in the classroom, and eventually I was offered the job here.”

Since then, Mr. Brubaker has become part of the daily routine for many students at Urbana. His mornings begin early as he prepares for the day ahead. “I get here around 7a.m. to set up for first class,” he said. ”I usually put a ‘would you rather’ question on the board to get students thinking before we start the normal lessons and activities for the day.” By beginning class with interactive questions, he creates an environment where students can feel comfortable participating and engaging with one another before lessons officially begin.

Although teaching comes with many responsibilities, Mr. Brubaker said the most rewarding part is knowing he is making a difference. “My favorite part of the job is feeling like I’m doing something worthwhile,” he said. For him, teaching is more than just giving assignments or presenting lessons; it is about helping students grow and preparing them for future opportunities. Genesis Velasco, one of his past students, recalled how much this helped the class atmosphere, saying, “Even looking back, those questions he put on the board are what I remember most because they made the morning fun and helped us all connect before we even started working.”

However, like many teachers, he admitted that not every part of the job is enjoyable. “Grading is probably the hardest part,” Mr. Brubaker admitted. “I really don’t enjoy grading.” Even so, he continues to focus on supporting his students and helping them succeed in class.

When asked what advice he would give students, Mr. Brubaker emphasized responsibility and balance. “Don’t procrastinate; make sure you turn your work in, study, and most importantly, have fun,” he said. His advice reflects the importance of both hard work and enjoying the high school experience.