We are excited to introduce Brian Backhaus, one of our dedicated Social Studies teachers at Hoosic Valley! Brian is enjoying his first full start to the school year, building relationships with students and setting the tone for a successful year ahead.Brian came to Hoosic Valley last January, stepping in mid-year. “It was a challenge for sure, but seeing kids start to listen and ‘buy in’ when they were a bit hesitant was very rewarding,” he shared. This experience reminded him that teaching should be fun and that students respond positively when they see that joy in learning.
This challenge also solidified Brian’s belief in the importance of providing students with stability. “Walking into so much confusion and sorting it out as best as I could reminded me that students appreciate the stability in our relationships with them. It takes work, but we are not really doing the job without it,” he said.
Brian is grateful for the support he’s received from the Social Studies department and the administration, noting the positive atmosphere they foster at Hoosic Valley. “The entire Social Studies department has been incredibly welcoming, and the administration creates a very positive ‘vibe’ in the building,” he added.
Through his experience, Brian hopes to impart an important lesson: “Change can be great, but consistency is key.” He believes that both change and stability play important roles in education and in creating lasting, meaningful connections with students.