Ben Metcalf

Position:

AP European History; AP World History; Pre-AP World History; UIL Spelling and Vocabulary Coach

Contact:

ben.metcalf@gcisd.net

Homework:

Homework is assigned daily at the AP/Pre-AP levels. Assignments are listed on our in-class calendars.

Education:

B.A. University of Minnesota: History, Latin, Classical Civilizations

Background:

My wife and I moved to the GCISD in 1996, where we both started our professional teaching careers.  Hired as one of the original staff members that opened CHHS a decade ago, I began teaching Latin and AP History and have watched our school develop and grow from its earliest stages into a Blue Ribbon School in our first six years together. After a brief swim at a private school, I have recently chosen to return to public education and to the school that originally taught me how to become an effective teacher.

Educational Philosophy:

Creating strong relationships with students, colleagues, and parents is my top priority in contributing to our “CHHS Community of Excellence.” Knowledge of the material is only of use to a teacher if one can communicate it effectively. Because of this, I am constantly striving to figure out how students learn and retain information while applying creative techniques to help them to do so. When strong relationships are at the forefront, teachers are there to help, parents are there to support, and students are there to believe in each other.

Anything Else:

My wife Jennifer and I live in sunny Keller, TX, along with our two princesses Lizzie (4) and Kate (10 months), and a truckload of animals. Away from school, I am a reader for the AP European History Exam and an essay grader for the S.A.T. In the fall, I officiate Texas HS Football for the Dallas Football Officials Association, and I like to mountain bike year-round. But above all, my two favorite things in the world are spending time with my family and cheering for the eventual Super Bowl Champion Minnesota Vikings.