By Jason Wesseldyk
Sports Editor
A familiar face will be taking on a new role at Plainwell High School.
Longtime PHS teacher/instructional coach Brian Huberty was recently named the schools’ new assistant principal.
According to Huberty, who began his teaching career at PHS in 2003, this seemed like the perfect time to take on this new challenge.
“I’m in the back third of my career, and I felt like this was the right time to take on a role where I can make an even bigger impact,” he said. “While I’ll miss being in the classroom every day, this position allows me to help shape systems that support not only students but also our educators.
“I want to continue doing my part to make Plainwell one of the top districts in Southwest Michigan.”
During his time at PHS, Huberty—who played baseball at Cornerstone University—has also coached several sports. That includes taking over as head varsity football coach in 2023.
He will retain that position.
“(Staying on as football coach) was really important to me,” Huberty said. “Our staff has worked hard the past two years to build a strong foundation for long-term success.
“One of the challenges we’ve faced is coaching turnover, and I want to bring some stability to the program. These athletes have put in a ton of work, and I want to be there to help them reach the success they’ve earned.”
Huberty believes coaching will also benefit him in his new position as assistant principal.
“Coaching keeps me grounded and connected to the daily experiences of our students in a way that benefits me in my leadership role,” he said.
His past roles as teacher and instructional coach will also serve Huberty well, he believes.
“I think having an administrator who has been in the classroom is a huge asset,” he said. “I know firsthand what the job requires and the kind of support teachers need. As an instructional coach, I was able to work directly with teachers on developing strong instructional practices, things that benefit both teachers and students.
“That experience gave me a clear picture of how to help our staff grow and succeed.”]
Huberty knows students today face unique challenges as compared to previous generations.
“Navigating social media—both what they’re exposed to and how much time they’re spending on it—has a big impact on how they interact with each other and with adults,” he said. “Add to that the pressure of figuring out their future—college, scholarships, athletics—and it’s a lot.
“That said, the core mission hasn’t changed. Teachers, coaches, and staff are here to help students become good people. We try to take those challenges and turn them into growth opportunities. That’s what I love about this team at PHS—everyone here is focused on building great citizens, not just students.”
In terms of what he views as the primary responsibilities as the assistant principal, Huberty said building relationships is at the top of the list.
“A lot of people immediately think ‘discipline’ when they hear assistant principal, but it’s much more than that,” he said. “Just like in the classroom, it starts with building strong relationships—with students and staff—to create a safe, supportive, and enjoyable learning environment.
“We’ll be rolling out some new cell phone policies, and I’m sure that’ll take up some attention early on. But at the end of the day, my biggest role is to be a champion for our students and staff, making sure everyone’s rowing the boat in the same direction and working together.”
Huberty came to PHS after earning his bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Cornerstone University. He later received his master’s in education from Cornerstone.
Huberty and his wife Becky—who have been married since 2002—share three children, with daughter Brynn recently graduating from PHS. Twins Audra and Olivia are juniors, with Audra on the swim & dive team and Olivia a member of the volleyball team.
“Plainwell has been home for a long time—for me and for my family,” Huberty said. “I care deeply about this community and the people in it. This role isn’t just a promotion; it’s an opportunity to give back in a bigger way.
“I’m excited to work alongside a passionate team of educators to continue making PHS a place where students can thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally. I’m grateful for the chance to lead and to serve.”
