Unfamiliar to students, but not a stranger to the school, history teacher Robert Yanko has returned to Hoban as a part-time teacher after 40 years. A 1966 alumnus and father of a 2000 graduate, Yanko reflected on his decision to come out of his recent retirement.

"I knew and respected some of the staff members," he said. "I've always had a good appreciation for the education that Hoban offers."

Yanko, coming from a long career at Hudson High School, remains the golf coach there. Along with a history lesson, students receive the occasional update on the victories and losses of the Hudson golf team.

"We're off to a good start," Yanko said. "But I'm beginning to have mixed feelings about the rivalry with Hoban when we play in the same tournaments."

Yanko received both a bachelor's and master's degree in education from the University of Akron. In 1971 he began teaching at Hudson, where he had been until this past June. Comparing his early impressions of Hoban to those of Hudson, Yanko had positive things to say.

"Every school attempts to create an educational atmosphere." Yanko said. "Different schools do this differently. I like the atmosphere here. The kids respect their opportunities, and they seem pleasant and happy to be here."

In addition to two AP U.S. History classes, Yanko teaches one class of World Cultures. Although the year has just begun, Yanko is already popular with students.

"His passion for the subject and his unique style of teaching won me over right away," said junior Maria Neugebauer, who takes AP U.S. History.

When asked to compare the Hoban he graduated from 40 years ago to the Hoban of today, Yanko identified the coed environment, as well as the uniforms students are required to wear as two of the most noticeable changes. Describing the coat and tie that were the mandatory uniform during his years at Hoban, Yanko gave valuable advice to the student body.

"Count your blessings," he said facetiously.