By Liz Contreras
At Bartlesville High School, Emily Hubler is embarking on her 7th year as an educator. As a math teacher, Hubler strives to create a classroom rooted in connection, where she deliberately invests in every student who walks through the doors.
“I want every student to feel like they have a safe space when they talk to me,” Hubler says. “I want to make sure every student feels at home and knows they can talk to me about anything.”
It is that same connection that inspired Hubler to pursue a career in education. She credits her 9th grade math teacher for instilling in her the belief that she could accomplish whatever goal she set her mind to.
“She inspired me to teach and helped guide me on what I should do in college and where I am now,” Hubler reflects.
Now, as a teacher, she covets every opportunity to devote herself to their well-being. Her favorite part of teaching isn’t found in lesson plans or test scores; it’s in the small, meaningful conversations that go beyond the trivial. Whether students are seeking advice, sharing a personal struggle, or simply needing someone to listen, she sees those moments as the heart of her role.
“These moments make me realize that teaching the kids math is a small portion of my job,” she shares.
Having taught exclusively at Bartlesville Public Schools, Hubler has grown to know the community and its children well. She has built long-term relationships with staff and students alike, frequently attending after school activities.
“I try my best to invest in everything the kids do… I want to support them in everything they are passionate about,” says Hubler. “What matters most is students knowing I will show up to support them.”
In the classroom, Hubler endeavors to make learning math an enjoyable and practical experience. In an age of constant distraction, keeping students engaged means tapping into creativity.
“I try to find games or activities to do in or outside the classroom,” she says. “For our statistics chapter… We played cornhole on the football field and then had a discussion about who was more precise and who was more accurate.”
Hubler measures success by the confidence and the kindness of each of her students. Her goal is to help foster not just good learners, but good people.
“I try to help develop them to be productive men and women in society,” she explains. “I want to make sure the kids are kind and respectful to everyone, no matter if they are different from them.”
More than a teacher, Emily Hubler is a steady presence in her students’ lives— she’s a mentor, a listener, a source of encouragement when it matters most. She hopes that each student who leaves her classroom carries with them the importance of kindness, compassion and connection.
“Love everyone, bring joy to others, and have peace with whatever you do in life.”
