Watching Students Flourish Inspires TTU K-12 Lead English Teacher

By Leslie Cranford, Section Manager

As TTU K-12's lead English teacher, Brooke Longbrake doesn't ask for much – just that her students come to love and appreciate the English language. That is what still inspires her daily as she recently made the switch from traditional and virtual classrooms in Lubbock and Dallas, to full-time teaching for Texas Tech University High School.

Longbrake teaches AP English as well as English 1 and 2 and has a total of nine years' experience in middle school and high school. She also has had experience in middle school social studies and health science.

She says she enjoys watching her students flourish as they get a better grasp of and appreciation for the English language. Longbrake believes the relationships formed with students, and the success they have based on knowing someone believes in them is the most rewarding thing about being a teacher.

"Each and every student is capable of great things, and sometimes a teacher is the key that is able to unlock that potential," Longbrake said. "This happens through relationship-building and positive accountability."

Coming from traditional and virtual classroom experiences, there were a few factors that drew her to want to teach for TTU K‑12.

"I feel like TTU K-12 is focused on student-centered instruction that helps each student succeed at their own pace, which helps each student reach their goals," Longbrake said. "This allows me to focus on teaching students and not teaching to a test."

However, along with the benefits, she admits there are challenges to teaching virtually.

"It can be difficult to get to know students as quickly as in a traditional classroom. I overcome this by being consistent in feedback and communication and reaching out as soon as I feel like a student may need help."

Longbrake added that her main piece of advice to any student concerns goals and motivation.

"Always remember specific, attainable goals that excite you, and keep moving toward them, whether you feel like it right then or not."

When she's not working, Longbrake enjoys time with her husband and five children, who range from two to 16 years old. She also likes running, reading, and coffee with friends.