At the Union vs Broken Arrow football game, Broken Arrow’s Principal Crystal Barber was presented a check for Science and Math education at Broken Arrow high school by the people of Oklahoma Oil & Natural Gas. 

One of the teachers who will benefit from this donation is Dustin Hynes who teaches Computer Science Principles and Advanced programming at Broken Arrow High. 

Tell us a little bit about yourself. Your hobbies, your passions.

I am a dedicated educator with a passion for teaching and a strong commitment to my family. I have had the privilege of being a teacher and Coach for the past 22 years, with the last 20 years dedicated to teaching in Broken Arrow. My family is at the center of my life, and I am a proud father to four wonderful children: Allison, Elijah, Emma, and Abby. My wife, Raylene Hynes, is also a high school teacher in Broken Arrow, and together, we share a deep love for education and our community.

Outside of my teaching career, I have a few hobbies and interests that keep me engaged and fulfilled. One of my greatest joys is spending quality time with my family and friends. Whether it’s cheering on my kids during their college and high school sports events or simply sharing precious moments together, these experiences are the highlights of my life.

Another hobby that I’m particularly passionate about is fishing. It allows me to unwind, connect with nature, and find solace in the great outdoors. Additionally, I have a knack for finding hidden treasures at garage sales and auctions. This has evolved into a rewarding pastime where I discover unique items to resell, adding an element of excitement to my weekends.

Overall, my life revolves around teaching, family, and a diverse range of interests that keep me grounded and engaged with the world around me. I am deeply honored to be a recipient of the OERB’s generous donation, which will greatly benefit the STEM programs at Broken Arrow High School, where I have had the privilege of teaching for the past two decades. This support will undoubtedly make a positive impact on our students’ education, and I am excited about the opportunities it will provide for their future success.

What classes do you teach?

I currently teach Computer Science Principles and Advanced programming. The students learn the programing languages of Visual Basics and Python.

Where did you go to college and what led you into teaching?

I pursued my college education at a few different institutions on my journey to becoming an educator. My freshman year was spent at Oklahoma State University, where I also had the opportunity to wrestle, combining my academic pursuits with my passion for sports. The following year, I transferred to Rogers State University, and I ultimately completed my last three years at Missouri Valley College. During my time at Missouri Valley College, I continued to wrestle and earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing.

My path into teaching was heavily influenced by the teachers and coaches I encountered while growing up. They played a pivotal role in shaping my character and instilling in me a deep appreciation for education. As a wrestler, I also experienced firsthand the positive impact that coaches and mentors can have on young individuals. Wrestling had given me so much in terms of discipline, perseverance, and a strong sense of community, and I wanted to give back to my community in a meaningful way.

Teaching, for me, became a natural extension of this desire to make a difference in the lives of young people. I saw it as an opportunity to not only impart knowledge but also to mentor and inspire students, much like the educators and coaches who had left a lasting impression on me. It’s a privilege to have dedicated 22 years of my life to teaching, and I’m grateful for the chance to continue making a positive impact on the lives of students in Broken Arrow.

Who mentored you into the educator you are today?

My journey as an educator has been shaped by a combination of inspirational figures, and among them, my parents stand out as the most significant mentors. While my teachers and coaches played pivotal roles in my development, it was my mother and father who provided unwavering support and guidance throughout my life.

My parents were always there for me, offering their unconditional love and encouragement in everything I pursued. Their values, work ethic, and dedication to our family served as a powerful example. They instilled in me the importance of education, resilience, and the significance of giving back to the community.

Their influence was not only profound in my decision to become an educator but also in the way I approach teaching and mentorship. I strive to emulate the qualities of dedication, support, and encouragement that they so generously bestowed upon me. My parents’ wisdom and unwavering belief in my potential continue to inspire me as I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of my students in Broken Arrow.

I am grateful for the strong foundation they provided and for the invaluable life lessons they imparted, which have undoubtedly contributed to the educator I am today. Their mentorship continues to guide me in my journey of teaching and helping young individuals reach their fullest potential.

What do you love about teaching?

What I love most about teaching is the profound impact it allows me to have on the lives of my students and the broader community. Teaching provides the opportunity to inspire and mentor young minds, build meaningful relationships, and make a lasting difference in their lives. Witnessing students’ growth, celebrating their achievements, and contributing to the betterment of my community are incredibly rewarding aspects of this profession.

Additionally, teaching offers a dynamic and creative environment where I can continuously learn, adapt to different learning styles, and find innovative ways to make learning exciting. It’s a profession that brings me immense joy and a sense of purpose as I help educate and prepare the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and problem-solvers.

What is great about your current school?

Broken Arrow High School is remarkable for several reasons. First and foremost, it boasts a team of dedicated educators who are passionate about nurturing the growth and development of our students. The school’s strong sense of community, where students, teachers, and parents collaborate closely, creates a positive and inclusive atmosphere that enhances the learning experience. And of course, we have a great wrestling program.

Why is teaching Science and Math so important?

Teaching Science and Math is of paramount importance because it equips students with critical thinking skills, enabling them to analyze complex problems and find practical solutions. Proficiency in these subjects is crucial for global competitiveness, as many growing job sectors demand expertise in Science and Math. Additionally, Science and Math foster innovation and creativity, encouraging students to explore and develop new ideas. In today’s information-rich world, they also promote scientific literacy, allowing students to make informed decisions on pressing issues.