Although Julie Probst may seem like any other math teacher to the outside eye, the impact she has had on her students and coworkers is anything but ordinary.
It all began after high school, when Probst attended the University of Iowa in pursuit of her math degree. She switched majors and graduated with a degree in psychology, where she then worked in Human Resources.
Once she had kids, her priorities shifted, and she decided to no longer work outside of the home. After they reached school age, Probst knew she still had many goals that she wanted to accomplish. She decided to go back to school and pursue her math and teaching degree at Grand View University.
“I always knew I wanted to help people and work with people in some way, and I always liked math,” Probst said.
After three years of relentless perseverance, Probst completed her education and began subbing at East High School in Des Moines and Johnston Middle School.
Once she finished a year of subbing, Probst switched to Johnston High School. Since then, she no longer subs, but teaches math full time.
“What’s cool about teaching is that it’s different every day. It’s kind of exciting in that way. It can be stressful too, because you never know what’s gonna happen, and it’s a job where you’re constantly moving and doing things. But it’s very challenging and stimulating,” Probst said.
This year marks her nineteenth year at JHS and will sadly be her final year as she transitions into retirement. With retirement just around the corner, Probst excitedly revisits her bucket list and looks forward to having more time for her hobbies and family.
“[I’m going to] Spend time with my grandkids and I’m going to travel more. I want to be able to read a lot more and scrapbook. I like to knit and crochet. I want to play more golf, pickleball, and workout. I want to learn a little Italian and I want to learn how to do sign language,” Probst said.
In addition to looking forward to more free time, Probst also reflects on her teaching career and her hopes for the impact she has had on her students.
“I hope that they learn how to think on their own and problem solve. Many students are not going to use all the skills that we teach them, especially in math class, but I hope that the students have learned how to take a situation and be able to use the skills that you already have and apply them to a new skill,” Probst said.
Not only does Probst hope her students will continue to grow and develop crucial life skills, but she will also miss the relationships she’s built with her fellow staff members.
“I’m going to miss the people that I work with too. They’ve been part of my life for the past 20 years,” Probst said.
Although Probst will no longer be teaching at JHS, her impact will continue through her students and coworkers, who will remember her best by one of her favorite quotes.
“In a world where you can be anything, be kind,” Probst said.