Students and staff at Eastchester High School turned their annual fall festival into a show of support Wednesday for a beloved longtime teacher who was seriously injured in a bicycle crash.
His wife says he has not woken up since the crash.
Gruber retired in 2024 but continued working at the school as a building-level substitute. Teachers and students say he remained an important and familiar presence in the school community.
The fall festival was one of Gruber's favorite events. He participated for years in the festival's pie-in-the-face booth, enthusiastically volunteering and connecting with students.
Each year, the Multicultural Club and students choose where money raised during the festival will be donated. This year, they decided to give the proceeds to Gruber and his family.
"He made a very big impact in the school," said Elianna Portorreal Acevedo, multicultural club president. "It's really sad to see what's going on with him, but he is still an amazing person. And I can't wait to see him again when he gets better."
Gruber's wife, Irene, said the family is grateful for the Eastchester community's generosity. She said there have been some positive milestones, including Gruber being placed on "automode" on his ventilator. However, a CAT scan showed fluid on his brain that could be slowing his progress. The family thanked the community for its continued prayers and support.