Spring Branch ISD Featured News

 

Joshua Ault’s journey to Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD) didn’t follow a traditional path.

Before ever setting foot in the classroom, Ault was chasing breaking news in Dallas, covering the crime scene in Alabama, and skydiving on live TV. He has infused that same fearless energy into his journalism classroom, teaching students that their stories and voices matter. 

Trading the newsroom for the classroom

After earning his degree from Northwestern State University, Ault jumped headfirst into the news world. He took on various roles, including radio DJ, TV photojournalist, and breaking news reporter in Dallas/Fort Worth. He spent a decade working on the front lines, reporting everything from house fires to human interest stories, even earning a Lone Star Emmy for one of his documentaries. 

But Ault had another passion he wanted to explore: teaching. Influenced by his mother and sister, both educators, the teaching profession had always been on his bucket list. 

Now in his second year at Spring Woods High School (SWHS), Ault oversees the school newspaper, yearbook, photojournalism classes, a student-run news station, and the school’s podcast. His classroom feels more like a bustling newsroom, filled with ideas, creative energy, and a deep respect for the power of storytelling. 

“I want my students to leave my class knowing journalism matters and can make a difference,” said Ault. 

Creating moments that matter 

Throughout his two years at SWHS, several moments reinforced his decision to enter the classroom. 

One of these moments occurred recently. Ault assigned his students to create news packages that addressed social issues, requiring them to produce pieces about real-world problems through research and interviews.

As part of the project, the student’s presented them to Ruth Steinfeld, 91-year-old Holocaust survivor. They also were able to share Steinfeld’s story.

“The students interviewed her and put together a compelling story that the entire school got to watch,” he said. “The project reinforced my belief that journalism is about preserving history, creating empathy, and understanding different viewpoints.” 

Another moment that sticks with Ault is a documentary project from last semester, where he asked students to spotlight their heroes. One senior chose to tell the story of her grandfather, who had immigrated to Mexico and helped to unite the student’s family before he passed away. The student wove the Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) observance into her story, which resulted in a moving, deeply personal piece. 

“I hope I inspire students to keep telling stories like that – stories that connect and illicit emotion,” he said. 

Keeping it fresh 

Ault says it’s easy to stay motivated year after year because of what he teaches. The news cycle is constantly churning, and there is always something happening in the world for his students to report on and discuss. 

“I’ve been known to have some compelling guest speakers like Katie Couric, David Muir, and Juju Chang talk to my class,” she said. “These opportunities are not only exciting for them, but for me as well.”

He also presents the Tiger Journalism Awards each semester, which is given to a student for outstanding storytelling projects. Parents are invited, and the award is a source of great pride for both the students and Ault. 

“The Tiger Journalism Awards is a way to celebrate students’ success in creating stories with real heart and impact. Recognizing a student in front of their peers and parents is powerful and shows them that their voice matters,” Ault said. 

Forging real connections 

His energy and enthusiasm make it clear why Ault is a favorite among his students. Perhaps it’s because he’s traveled the globe, competed in triathlons, and once had knives thrown at him. However, beyond the fun facts and thrilling stories, Ault remains committed to his mission as an educator: to connect with kids and engage with them on their own level. 

“In between teaching and creating project-based assignments, genuinely listening to students can be challenging, but it’s extremely important,” he said. “Sometimes the most challenging part of the profession is connecting with kids and understanding their perspective.”

When asked to describe teaching in three words, Ault doesn’t hesitate: Inspiring, Challenging, Fun. 

“For me, those aren’t just words. They represent a promise to keep my classroom dynamic and engaging – to use teaching as a platform to ignite the hearts and minds of future storytellers,” he said.  

#SBISDPROUD