Coppell High School English teacher Benjamin Stroud brings with him a love for English, a master’s degree in higher education from the University of North Texas and plan to complete 18 hours of English instruction to teach dual credit courses in his first year at CHS.

How did you begin teaching at Coppell High School?

I am an AP grader, and I happened to be sitting by [AP English III teacher Tracy] Henson on the plane ride to the AP Reading [in June, in Florida], and I casually asked if [CHS] was looking for an AP English III teacher and she said, “Actually, we are,” and one thing led to another. 

What is your favorite aspect of teaching English?

In AP English III, [I enjoy] teaching kids how words matter and [how] words can create an argument. Every text – no matter if it’s a poem, short story, essay or novel – is all argumentative. People write to persuade other people or societies. My favorite part is when kids actually start recognizing how words create this argument, both positive and negative. With GT/Honors English II, I enjoy teaching them how to read with the different modes of reading: enjoyment and critical reading. 

What are your goals for this year?

My number one goal is to watch what the school and teacher climate of CHS is. I want to know how Coppell and CHS work – what do they value? What do the kids and teachers believe in? If I can help, where can I help? 

How is what you’re teaching in English helping students for the future?

Everything [in life] is an argument, and everything deals with writing. Before you get a one-on-one job interview, you have to write something. AP English III prepares kids in the writing process and makes them stronger, more confident writers. AP English III involves a lot of writing – once you get it, you can change the world through your pen.

What are your passions?

I like to travel. One of my goals is to see all baseball stadiums before I pass away, and [travel to] all the states [in the United States]. This past year I went to Yellowstone – it was wonderful. I come from a small town, [Paradise, TX]; I was part of the [high school] class of 1995. In high school, I was in theater and was the third-string quarterback – I got to play for eight games. Being in a small town, you had to play sports. I played football, tennis and basketball as well.