New Assignment Posted: Leisure; Meet Some of Melbourne High’s Retiring Staff Members by Kyle McLaren
For over two decades, Mr. Hal Stepp and Mr. Joe Laub have helped to educate students and make Melbourne High run smoothly. Both Mr. Stepp and Mr. Laub officially announced their retirement after watching students and staff grow and evolve. Mr. Stepp was one of the computer technicians and worked out of the main office in Building 5. Mr. Stepp, a retired Air Force veteran, began his education career at Central Middle School before joining Melbourne High in 2004. “Central had computers and televisions, and I began doing PowerPoint presentations on the television, and everyone wanted to know how to do it. The school’s tech guy took notice and an opening came up at Melbourne high, so I took it,” Mr. Stepp said. Mr. Stepp was often seen making trips to classrooms to replace a malfunctioning laptop or resolve software issues. “The interesting thing I’ve encountered was the many ways students can find new ways to make [the computers] mess up,” said Mr. Stepp. As he left the tech department, he left with a legacy of helpfulness. “I just want Melbourne High to continue being the best high school in Brevard County,” Mr. Stepp said.
Mr. Joseph Laub has been a part of Melbourne High’s science department for 23 years and a Brevard educator for 31 years. Throughout his career, he has taught a variety of science subjects. “I’ve always taught some science, but I’ve taught a lot of subjects. My favorite was biology,” Mr. Laub said. Mr. Laub taught both Biology and Biology Honors for the 2024-25 school year and provided many fun activities. “I liked the dissections, like frogs,” said Mr. Laub. Mr. Laub also ensured his education was met with enjoyment. “I just want my students to feel like they got a great education but also had fun in class,” Mr. Laub said.
Students and faculty both shared their tributes to both staff members. “I’m kinda sad. He was genuinely a good teacher and gave us time to learn things,” said Mary Kleinschnitz, a freshman in Mr. Laub’s Biology Honors class. “Learning about organisms in general, and humans, was pretty cool,” said Felipe Gibelli Da Silva. Chorus teacher Mrs. Natalie Taylor and CTE teacher Mrs. Jessica Maddox appreciated Mr. Stepp’s assistance with their technical needs. “Whenever I’ve needed help, he’s helped me with any issues I’ve had with my technology,” Mrs. Taylor said. “I love Hal. He’s been amazing with us, helping with technical situations, navigating new software and tools,” said Mrs. Maddox. Though they may be retiring, both Mr. Stepp and Mr. Laub will remain important icons for Melbourne High.