Teachers play an important role in everyone’s life. They help shape our interests and introduce us to a world bigger than our own. This year, one of Hornell’s educators, , was nominated for the 2021 NextGen Leader Awards hosted by First Heritage Federal Credit Union. Brubaker is a seventh grade Living Science teacher and has been with the district since 2019.

“The Hornell City School District is incredibly proud of Gillian Brubaker’s work and her nomination for this NexGen Award. We look forward to learning from her and appreciate all that she does to make science exciting and fun for her students,” said Superintendent Jeremy Palotti.

The NextGen Leader Awards goal is to recognize those who
are 21-40 years old and are rising stars within the categories of Education, Emergency Services, Business Leaders, and Community Leaders in recognition of their dedication, leadership, and commitment to their profession.
In less than three years with Hornell, Brubaker has already made a big impact on her students. Science Department Chair Kathy Flint says, “Gillian brings energy to the classroom. She provides hands-on opportunities for learning which engage students in the real-world application of science concepts. We are lucky to have an educator who cares for her students’ success and works hard to ensure her students become active learners and skilled thinkers.”

One of Brubaker’s favorite units is about living organisms, where students use the microscope to see microorganisms. Students look at the slide and see nothing, but once it is put under the microscope and focused, a host of living things are visible. “It’s great to watch a spark ignite in their minds,” Brubaker said, “when they figure out science is much more than the weather.” Being able to see the unseen under the microscope has helped her students to have a greater understanding of bacteria, viruses and the unseen world around us.

Brubaker’s priority as an educator is to go above and beyond to have a positive, lasting impact on her students. She said, “Teaching seventh graders means you get students at the beginning of high school. You can watch them grow, develop and change.” Brubaker strives to show that getting an education and taking advantage of the opportunities around you is a keyway to grow and develop.

“Gillian’s class is literally a laboratory for learning,.” said High School Principal Scott Carroll. “We are extremely fortunate to have her as a science teacher, and instructing our students.”