Glass half full

By Andres Perez

Let’s face it: School can be a somber, soulless place at times, and it’s easy to give into the negativity. However, there’s one teacher on campus who won’t let any of it touch his classroom, no matter what: Joel Hernandez.

Hernandez has been a part of the YB community for over 11 years, uplifting students along the way. Optimistic, lively, and passionate both in and out of the classroom, he brings a different, down to earth vibe to the function. 

Hernandez: “To me, coming to work is something that I enjoy, it’s a passion and I don’t actually see it as a job, as working.”

He loves to interact with all his students when he gets the chance, a signature smile always running across his face.

Hernandez’ passion for teaching is mostly driven by his love of History and the joy he gets in helping students on their journey to academic success.

Hernandez: “I think it’s two things: One is being in the classroom teaching what I like, what I enjoy, (which is History), and interacting with the students. Basically, 

seeing their growth from day 1 to the end of the school year.”

Although Hernandez does love his job, he knows all too well the many downsides that students don’t get to see.

Hernandez: “The one thing I enjoy the least would be grading.” “..It’s just something that drains your battery, grading so many papers.”      

Hernandez also laments spending so much time at school, which he could be spending with his family. 

However, he keeps a positive attitude through it all, and appreciates the time he does get to himself.

Hernandez: “..we have Thanksgiving, we have Christmas, New Year coming up, and I get to see my family more often those days.”

He also recognizes that grading, though tedious at times, allows him to determine who’s been paying attention, and who might need some help.

Hernandez makes an effort to enjoy his time and feel at home when at school. He loves to participate in the fun activities and takes every opportunity to get out, whether it’s dodgeball games between teachers and students, or hiking field trips that go on until the class can’t feel their legs.

Hernandez: “I think that just interacting with students outside of the classroom and in those events, it’s great to connect with students outside of the classroom, and it gets competitive out there!”

So Hernandez, regardless of the hardships he faces due to his job, pushes on and always tries to make the most of it.

He appreciates every special moment that he can get while combatting any negative moment that tries to cross him. 

He looks forward to each new day and every new adventure that comes his way, each breath of fresh air a renewed strength for him.

Hernandez: “I feel like I made the right choice becoming a teacher.”

Teachers like Hernandez are the ones that will truly hold a special place in your heart. Whenever school has got you down, you can mentally return to that classroom and remember what you’ve learned from the best to fight off the negativity.