Travis Brockschmidt is a well-known teacher here at Jacksonville High School. Most students experience his presence in US History and US History through Film. Things he is most known for are his signature sayings, including “…and that,” and “…anyone?” while asking the class a question.
Besides the little things that students notice and hold on to, they also find a connection to his sense of humor. When asked “How would you describe your sense of humor?” Brockschmidt answered, “I think I have a good sense of humor including the ability to laugh at myself.” Who doesn’t love a teacher who can crack a joke? Senior Anna Anderson is one of the people who loves his sense of humor. She was quoted saying, “He had our entire class, junior year, convinced that former President George W. Bush was assassinated. Those of us who believed it didn’t find it so funny at the time, but Brockschmidt did.”
Mr. Brockschmidt definitely takes pride in being a history teacher, but if he could have any other job in the world, he would work as a ranger at a national park site such as Antietam or Gettysburg. He would love to experience what he does every day as a teacher in an environment such as those places. His favorite thing about his job ties back into his love for history, which led him to become a history teacher in the first place.
When asked “If someone were to tell you that you were their favorite teacher, what would you expect their reasoning to be?” He answered, “Because I knew the subject matter and had a passion for it.” This is completely accurate. He is by far the best teacher I have had here at JHS, and it is because he really knows what he is talking about and knows how to teach the subject matter. I love history, but I wouldn’t have as much passion for the subject if it weren’t for teachers like Brockschmidt who have enough passion to make it a living and never get tired of it.
On a less serious note, if he could get rid of any (one) state in the US, he would decide to extend the number and choose Iowa, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio, since he is a University of Illinois alum and is not too fond of the Big Ten rivals. He also doesn’t like Missouri because he doesn’t like the St. Louis Cardinals, which is very unfortunate.
If given three wishes, Mr. Brockschmidt would wish for perfect health, all the money he needs to live, and an NBA title for the Washington Wizards.