Erik Bruckbauer's Heart
is in Huntington
Erik Bruckbauer grew up in Smithtown and graduated from Smithtown High School, but there's no doubt his heart is now firmly anchored in Huntington.
Mr. Bruckbauer has been a Huntington High School social studies teacher since 2002. He earned an undergraduate degree in political science at SUNY Plattsburgh and obtained graduate degrees at Dowling College and Stony Brook University in secondary education and educational administration, respectively.
"I love teaching social studies at Huntington High School," Mr. Bruckbauer said. "While I'm not originally from this town, I now couldn't imagine working anywhere else." The towering teacher has been the faculty advisor to the graduating classes of 2009 and 2012, along with colleague Camille Tedeschi.
"I love being an advisor and helping the class plan, organize and win events like float night, homecoming, playfest, battle of the classes and the prom," Mr. Bruckbauer said. He has also chaperoned private trips with Ms. Tedeschi and a handful of other Huntington teachers, through EF Tours. Trips to Belize and Berlin/Prague/Swiss Alps are planned for next year. "These have been amazing adventures and learning experiences for us and the students," he said about past tours.
Mr. Bruckbauer has taught almost everything the social studies department offers, including global history, economics, participation in government, urban studies, US history and criminal justice. "While I find all these subjects interesting, my favorite part of the job is interacting with students," he said. "I truly have a lot of fun working with kids at Huntington."
A decade into his career in Huntington, Mr. Bruckbauer has no plans to ever leave. "Teaching today is an extraordinarily challenging, but rewarding career," he said. "This school and my students have come to mean so much to me. I only hope I've impacted them in a positive and lasting way."