Caron Hauptmann—not your regular substitute teacher. Hauptmann had always wanted to teach, but was told that there wouldn’t be many job openings when she attended college. Afterwards, she got a career in higher education, working with student leadership. It was not until her oldest child went off to college that she decided to start teaching as a substitute. Teaching was a way to stay connected to the school, since Hauptmann had been very involved as a parent.

“I started subbing, and realized how much I loved it, and I still do,” Hauptmann said. “It’s been a really good thing for me.” Substitute teaching was a confirmation of Hauptmann’s original goal to become an educator.

Hauptmann describes herself as a “sports fanatic.” She enjoys watching sports and exercising with her dogs, but her favorite pastime is spending time with her family. Another fun fact about Hauptmann is that she works at Disneyland with the Meet and Greet characters in addition to teaching. After her first child was born, Hauptmann took the CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills Test) in case she wanted to get a part-time job as a teacher. She has been teaching for five years, and has had the chance to follow many students throughout their academic journeys.

“My favorite part of being a teacher is the students,” Hauptmann said. “I love being able to connect with them and see how things are going for them at school and in their lives.” Hauptmann has a big heart for students in Claremont, because she can get to know them at El Roble, and then check in with them when they are at CHS.

“I would hope CHS students would say I am caring, encouraging, friendly, and that I enjoy being with them,” Hauptmann said. She cares about every student she encounters, and genuinely wants to get to know them.

Hauptmann is not just another substitute teacher. She has a passion for teaching, and is living out her childhood dream. Education has always been a significant part in various stages of her life. Many students would agree that Hauptmann is someone who deeply cares about them and is invested in their academic and personal development.