As you enter Coppell High School room B206, the energy is unmistakable. Laughter, curiosity and engagement fill the classroom as students eagerly settle into their seats. B206 is not a typical classroom–it is a vibrant community. Physics teacher Scott McKinley is the center of energy, known for connecting with his students and fostering a safe, enthusiastic environment for his classroom.
Prior to working at CHS, McKinley spent over a decade in the business world working as an actuary for Transamerica Insurance, contributing skills such as analytic thinking, problem-solving and a keen eye for detail; skills which have transferred over to his teaching career.
“In some ways, actuarial work was very challenging and rewarding, but I just didn’t see enough purpose in that job,” McKinley said.“I wasn’t motivated to give my best effort.”
It was not just a craving for purpose drawing McKinley to teaching, as he also wanted to follow in the footsteps of his high school biology teacher, Mr. Reichle at RL Turner High School in Carrollton. McKinley fondly remembers the influence Reichle left on him and his distinctive teaching style.
“Mr. Reichle saved my high school experience with his kind of bizarre combination of silliness and excellence,” McKinley said. “I don’t think I’m on the level of Mr. Reichle yet, but if I can do something for my students that is somewhere close to what Reichle did for me, then it will be an accomplished mission.”
The combination of humor, purpose and aspiration is apparent in McKinley’s teaching style. His commitment to creating a positive environment is not just confined to his students, but extends to his colleagues. Physics teacher Kayla Limer emphasizes how McKinley is driven to be his best self by making his classroom a comfort zone where students can express themselves.
“He’s constantly trying to improve his teaching,” Limer said. “He is invested in making sure his students understand everything he is teaching and not only teach them the physics that he does but also life lessons.”
Sophomore Varshita Nidamanuri admires McKinley’s patience and dedication as he stays determined to guide his students, even when improvement takes time or the material proves to be difficult to grasp.
“Mr. McKinley is very patient and tries his very best to teach his students,” Nidamanuri said. “He doesn’t give up and is very persistent and determined. He cares so much about his students and everyone in general.”
McKinley is motivated to come to school every day with an enthusiasm to teach his students, guided by his passion for helping others and his love for teaching. He thinks teaching at CHS is an energizing experience, thus allowing him to instill a sense of curiosity and confidence in his students without the underlying demands of his profession.
“Teaching at this school fits very closely with the way I hoped and imagined teaching would be before I started my career,” McKinley said. “I don’t feel exhausted in May, and I feel ready for another year every August.”
Nidamanuri highlights McKinley’s ability to understand and adapt to a student’s needs, ensuring that no one feels left behind in the learning process. He creates an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, exploring concepts and being able to make mistakes with no judgment.
“Mr. McKinley puts himself in the shoes of the students and makes sure that we feel comfortable with the subject,” Nidamanuri said. “His personality and how he teaches the subject makes the class more intriguing.”
This supportive nature extends beyond the walls of B206. Limer appreciates her time with McKinley, valuing their meaningful interactions.
“He’s a funny guy,” Limer said. “He always brings a little bit of humor and that always lightens my day.”
In addition to his sharp sense of humor, McKinley’s lighthearted perspectives not only create an engaging learning environment, but also show his dedication to CHS.
“If I had more talent, I might have chosen to be a kickboxer or something like that,” McKinley said. “But, teaching is definitely my first choice now, and CHS is my first choice for where I want to be teaching.”
McKinley’s dedication to teaching his students originates from a genuine care for their success. He understands the struggles that his students may face and works around them to make them more relaxed. This allows him to form an environment in B206 where students feel valued and supported. His classroom is not just for formulas and equations; it transforms into an atmosphere where students are heard and can be themselves.
“The reason I teach is that I have a soft spot for kids, and teens in particular because I feel like teenagers have so much to deal with,” McKinley said. “If I can help improve their journey in any way, then I’m very motivated to do that.”
Follow Zaara (@sincerely.zaara) and @CHSCampusNews on X.
