Sonoma County Office of Education

Employee Spotlight: Bob Herbstman

02/02/2023 - Bob Herbstman

Name:
Bob Herbstman

Years at SCOE:
10.5

Job Title:
Communications Support Technician

How do you describe your job to people outside SCOE?
My duties include Web updates and accessibility compliance, graphic design and typesetting, registration and EMS support, video production, but I find it’s easiest to say website stuff and business cards.

Where did you grow up?
New Jersey and Miami, Florida. But I’ve lived in California for almost 40 years now.

Who was your favorite childhood teacher and why?
My high school journalism teacher, Mr. Hunter. The man was a saint. He had a tremendous amount of patience. Regardless of some of the shenanigans I pulled, he always tried to steer me in the right direction. He was also an excellent teacher.

What is your favorite thing about SCOE?
Co-workers. I’ve had the good fortune to work with a supportive, caring group of people in IT. I’ve also had the opportunity to work with many wonderful people throughout the organization.

What is one of your most memorable moments as a SCOE employee?
The days right after the Tubbs Fire were crazy. I remember that it was a hard time to focus on work.

Outside of work, what is your favorite hobby or way to unwind?
I like to run, draw, walk our rambunctious Labrador retriever, and binge watch "Law and Order SVU" and "Dateline" with my wife.

Do you have a favorite TV show, movie or book that involves a school setting?
There are so many great ones! "To Sir, with Love," "Blackboard Jungle," "Stand and Deliver," "Dead Poets Society," "Mean Girls," "Rock ‘n’ Roll High School," to name just a few.

What is your favorite place in Sonoma County?
Costco. I prefer the Rohnert Park location.

What might people be surprised to learn about you?
I played in a punk rock band during college.