In the end, the kids turned out fine after all.

With a new year and a new decade kicking off, all of the current staff and former staff are reminiscing on what seemed to be just a day in the past, but is now 10 whole years in the past. 

We all remember that one instructor that said we would amount to nothing and end up with our parents still. 10 years later, Student turned teacher, Jonathan Huether is a perfect example of perseverance and persistence. 

“I never expected to be back here,” said Huether.

“I tried many jobs once I got out of high school, but I soon realized that high school is my sanctuary. Many of my good friends and teachers have come and gone and this building has definitely seen better days, but overall I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.” 

Huether and other alumni live by the “Once a Charger, Always a Charger,” slogan and after teaching dozens upon dozens of classes, the energy in the classroom remains the same as if he was still a student.

“I loved being involved here, the more involved you are, the more opportunity there is to spark a connection with the people you enjoy being around the most. I correlate the same energy I had 10 years ago into my classes today. What I do goes far beyond teaching; I’m providing a relatable atmosphere for these kids to grow and learn. The more we thumb away at our phones and gadgets, the less likely we are to have that connection.” said Huether.

Visualize us not having a back parking lot, not being able to drive around the school in a full circle, and not having a CCC. 20 year influencer, Mrs. Paige Robinson, remembers it all like it was yesterday. 

“Today is nothing like it used to be, things as drastic as a new building and even the subtle things like the style of clothes my students wear.” said Robinson.

“The reason why I still wake up every morning and come here after 20 years, is because I see the immense potential these kids possess. It’s a remarkable feeling when somebody else’s potential drives you. I try to reach someone new everyday.” 

Life is full of battles preparing you for an endless war, so don’t get hung up on the little things like classroom drama, social media, and other little mistakes you make on the way. Everything changes regardless if we like it or not, but whether its 2020 or 2030, the energy here at Bullitt East is just as strong as it was in 2010.