Social studies teacher and soccer coach Joshua Robinson was recognized for National Mentor Month at last week’s pep assembly on Jan. 24. The celebration was a surprise to Robinson, who shared in an interview that the staff, along with English teacher and assistant soccer coach Rachel Bostick, had been planning it for nearly three months.
“I thought I was helping keep [Bostick] out of the gym because I thought she was getting an award,” Robinson said. “She’s been in on it since, like, November.”
At the assembly, Robinson was awarded three World Cup tickets to any game of his choice, as well as $1,000 to donate to a charity of his choice, in recognition of his outstanding mentorship and leadership.
Robinson’s coaching accomplishments last year were exceptional. In the spring, he assisted head coach Christopher Whaley with the success of the Mustangs girls’ soccer team in the 2024 BodyArmor Sports Series soccer tournament. He later replicated this achievement with the boys’ team in the fall, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier coach.
Beyond sports, Robinson’s most significant contributions come from his leadership of Metea’s Captain Council. This club focuses on developing leadership qualities and community-oriented skills among student-athletes. Meetings are held every other Friday before school in the F216 classroom, where they organize impactful community service projects in Aurora and Naperville and collaborate with neighboring elementary schools.
When asked about his feelings upon receiving the award, Robinson expressed his deep connection with the students who surrounded him during the presentation.
“It was very humbling to receive something like that in front of the kids I love,” Robinson said.
Although his success on the soccer field is impressive, Robinson’s ability to inspire and positively influence others’ lives has earned him widespread praise. Many students regard him as a strong role model in life.
When asked about the most rewarding aspect of teaching, Robinson reflected on the deep connections between mentors and their students.
“[I’ve seen] kids go through whatever they do in post-high school, now in leadership roles,” Robinson said. “It’s really cool to see kids that blossomed and now are doing these great leadership things post-high school. I have a couple of kids that I coach who are now coaches themselves, and kids that I’ve taught who are now in.”
Reflecting on his career, Robinson emphasized the importance of mentorship in shaping a person’s character.
“When I think about the mentors I had growing up, it was people who guided me toward becoming a better person,” Robinson said. “Kids get frustrated with adults all the time because, you know, for 9 million different reasons.”
“If a kid has a hard day in class, or I’m too harsh with them, I check in the next day and start fresh. We’re the adults, and staying petty with kids, that’s not right. Show your humility to them.”
He believes that truly supporting students starts with understanding their individual needs.
“Building relationships is key because not all kids need the same thing,” Robinson said. “Some need tough love, some need kindness, and others need accountability. It’s a mix of things, but take the time to know the kids and build those relationships.”
